Larson Doc Smashes GSN Ratings Records

[Brett Ferino]

Big Bucks meant big ratings---the highest in the history of Game Show Network Sunday night.

Big Bucks: the Press Your Luck Scandal, which depicted Michael Larson's dramatic run to $110,237 on the CBS game in 1984 and his ultimate self-destruction in his personal life, scored an average 1.5 rating for its two hours and in the final (10-11 p.m.) hour, averaged a 1.8 (1.72 million viewers).

The network's first-ever attempt at a longform documentary earned 0.9 ratings among 18-49 and 25-54 age adults. From 10-11, the Larson biodoc drew a 1.1 in both 18-34s and 18-49s.

"We are thrilled that our first documentary generated the highest ratings in Game Show Network history and that it was one of the most popular cable programs of the night," said Rich Cronin, GSN president and CEO in a statement. "This spectacular viewership validates our strategy to create game related programming that builds on our slate of original interactive game shows."

Sources close to the network say the record ratings will likely pave the way for more documentaries. The special has three more encore airings, including next Sunday at 9 p.m. (ET).