American Horror Story 'Freaks' with Record 6.1M Viewers

The latest incarnation of FX's American Horror Story came out of the gate by securing the anthology franchise's largest audience.

"Freak Show" averaged 6.13 million watchers during its Oct. 8 debut, according to Nielsen data. That topped the previous record-holder, the debut of the series' third iteration by 11%, as "Coven" drew some 5.5 million watchers last fall.

Wednesday night's debut also scored well with the 18-to-49 set, averaging a 3.1 rating, up one-tenth from Coven's bow.

The demo delivery was the second best in all of television, behind only the 3.4 for ABC's Modern Family.