Over 12 million viewers saw the first episode of the new computer-animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles the first weekend it aired, Nickelodeon announced.  The premiere was the week’s top show for kids 2-11 and boys 6-11 across broadcast and cable TV.  It was the #1 kids program on basic cable for the week, and Nickelodeon’s top premiere for an animated series since 2009. 

Nickelodeon has ordered a second season of 26 episodes based on the response.

The response to the premiere was important not only for everyone involved in TMNT business; it was also critical for Nickelodeon and parent Viacom (see "A Lot Riding on 'Turtles'").  The hit should give a boost to both Turtles comics, toys, and other merchandise; and to Viacom’s fortunes.