In a somewhat surprising move, NBC has decided to give Bryan Fuller’s Hannibal for a second season. The show has earned rave reviews from critics, but its low ratings made its renewal seem unlikely at first.
NBC announced the decision last night, confirming that season two will also have 13 episodes. The series stars Mads Mikkelsen as Dr. Hannibal Lecter, who works with Hugh Dancy’s character, Will Dancy, to solve crimes. Of course, Dancy doesn’t know that Lecter is a serial killer himself. Laurence Fishburne, Caroline Dhavernas and Hettienne Park also star.
The series is based on Thomas Harris’ novel Red Dragon.
“We’re so proud of Bryan’s vision for a show that is richly textured, psychologically complex, and very compelling. There are many great stories still to be told,” NBC Entertainment President Jennifer Salke said in a statement.
Hannibal was slated for a mid-season premiere during the 2012-2013 TV season, but did not premiere until April. The first episode drew 4.3 million viewers and a 1.7 18-49 rating and is averaging a 2.0 18-49 rating, NBC said. The network also noted that the show’s rating in the key demo jumps 75 percent on average thanks to DVR and other viewings after the show airs.
NBC only renewed three new shows from the 2012-2013 season - Hannibal, Revolution and Chicago Fire. Since NBC waited so long to renew Hannibal, the show will likely get a mid-season slot during the next season.
image: NBC