Fifth Season Of Merlin Launches With Strong Ratings

BBC One‘s fantasy drama Merlin returned on Saturday evening to strong ratings despite a late-running Strictly Come Dancing.

The popular drama returned for its fifth season starring Bradley James and Colin Morgan with 5.5 million viewers. A figure that will rise when consolidated ratings are released next week. Arthur’s Bane drew slightly more overnight viewers than season four’s opener last year, The Darkest Hour which had 5.2 million viewers.

SFX report that the BBC are stating Merlin drew 6 million viewers for Saturday’s season premier. However, the fact that Strictly Come Dancing over-ran slightly may account for the difference in the two figures –  final consolidated ratings will take into account the actual start time for Merlin and those who recorded and watched the episode later.

Arthur’s Bane, Part Two will air on Saturday evening on BBC One.