‘Underground’ Premiere Breaks Network Record

WGN America announced that its original series Undergound shattered records as the most-watched program in 18 years on the network. Five Reasons We’re Tuning in to ‘Underground’ The premiere aired Wednesday, March 9, and, according to Indie Wire, drew in 3.5 million total viewers (including the three encores) to become the highest rated original scripted program ever in the network’s history. That’s not all. The series trended on Twitter in its premiere night as the second highest trending topic of the night just behind the Democratic debate. John Legend Produces Music for ‘Underground’ That Is Bold, Thrilling and Absolutely Intense The show was even applauded by Gabriel Union who tweeted,

Watching #UndergroundWGN and can’t give this show enough praise. My heart just got ripped outta my chest. Great television. Simply great

— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) March 10, 2016

“Watching #UndergroundWGN and can’t give this show enough praise. My heart just got ripped outta my chest. Great television. Simply great.” Jurnee Smollett, Angela Bassett, and More, Attend Star-Studded Premiere of ‘Underground’ Underground audiences weren’t the only ones thrilled about the show. Matt Cherness, president and general manager of WGN America and Tribune Studios stated, “We couldn’t be happier with the outstanding performance of ‘Underground,’ but the overwhelmingly positive response of the audience to this story about the unsung American heroes of the Underground Railroad is even more gratifying.” “The talented creators Misha Green and Joe Pokaski, along with the producers and an amazing cast and crew, have created something truly special.” WANT MORE FROM ESSENCE? Subscribe to our daily newsletter for the latest in hair, beauty, style and celebrity news.