Game Of Thrones Episode 5 Smashes More Viewing Records

As Game of Thrones reaches its very end, the show continues to break records. The most recent, penultimate Episode 5 has set a new audience record for the show and was watched by a massive 18.4 million viewers.

The episode, titled "The Bells," is the most-watched episode in the show's history. This figure includes replays and streaming; in terms of on-air viewing, the episode drew an audience of 12.5 million across two airings on Sunday night. The previous record was held by Episode 3 of Season 8, "The Long Night," which was watched by a total of 17.8 million viewers two weeks ago. Notably, both Episodes 3 and 5 featured massive battle scenes. Prior to those, the record was set by the 17.4 millions viewers who watched the season premiere.

While these figures make Season 8 the most popular to date, the show has been a ratings hit from the very start. The show is HBO's most popular series of all time and the most watched scripted show on TV. There is just one episode remaining in Season 8--and the whole show entirely. Episode 6 airs next Sunday, May 19.

Despite the huge viewings figures, like most of the episodes in Season 8, "The Bells" received a mixed response from some critics and viewers. In his review, GameSpot's Michael Rougeau stated that the show has become a "fiery sea of nihilism and cynicism about human nature." Nevertheless, he praised it on a technical level, stating the episode was "a masterpiece of cinematic fantasy television." Also be sure to check out our look at how the show takes place in its darkest timeline.

For more on the latest episode of Game of Thrones, check out our look at 5 new Game of Thrones Season 8 theories from Episode 5, 15 Easter Eggs and references you might have missed, and the meaning of Dany's dragon command.