Which season of Cheers ranked number one in Nielsen ratings?

Season 9 of Cheers ranked number one in the Nielsen ratings.

Cheers became a ratings success gradually rather than instantly. Its first season opened weakly, ranking 74th out of 77 programs at one point, but repeat broadcasts and strong word of mouth helped the series build a durable audience. The show ultimately placed in the Nielsen top 10 for eight of its 11 seasons.

Its peak came in season 9, when Cheers reached number one for the year for the first and only time. That season aired during the show’s mature period, when the ensemble included established performers such as Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, George Wendt, Woody Harrelson, Kelsey Grammer, and Kirstie Alley.

The other choices can be tempting because several seasons were highly successful. Season 6 followed major cast changes and remained popular, while season 11 benefited from enormous attention surrounding the finale. Neither, however, achieved the series’ sole first-place Nielsen ranking.