UP announced today that the premiere episode of its original series “Bringing Up Bates” on January 1 was the strongest original telecast ever for the network among W18-49 and W25-541. Based on live + same day data, the series ranked #16 in the time-period among ad-supported cable networks in W25-54 and #20 in W18-492.
“I can’t think of a better way for UP to start 2015 than having viewers embrace ‘Bringing Up Bates’ and this remarkable family,” said Charley Humbard, president & CEO, UP.
Led by devoted father Gil and his loving wife Kelly Jo, the Bates do everything in bulk while staying true to their values and rules for the family. With a grand total of 19 children ranging in age from 2 to 25, they are the definition of a “big, happy family.” But lately – as viewers will see – their simple rural lifestyle in Tennessee is in a flurry of transitions and is continually challenged by the modern world.
The 13-episode UP Original Series will explore new, ever-changing family dynamics as the Bates celebrate the birth of the 1st grandchild, Bradley Gilvin Bates, with son Zach (25) and his wife Whitney; foster the courtship of Michaella (24) and Brandon Keilen by allowing him to share an extended visit with the family during the holiday season; support Erin (23) and her husband Chad Paine as they face a health issue that challenges their hope of starting a family; check in on newlywed Alyssa (20) as she finds her way in Florida with new husband, John Webster, the son of recently re-elected U.S. Representative Daniel Webster (R-Fla.) and prepare for the birth of her first child; encourage Tori (18) to bring order to the family schedule and step up to meet the challenges of child training as her parents have become more lax in their later years.
