What Game of Thrones Has the Highest Viewers: Unpacking the Numbers Behind Westeros' Reign
Unpacking the Viewership Phenomenon: What Game of Thrones Had the Highest Viewers?
I remember the first time I truly understood the sheer, monumental scale of Game of Thrones. It wasn't during one of the iconic battles or a shocking twist; it was during a casual conversation with my neighbor, a sweet elderly woman who, to my surprise, was just as invested in the fate of Jon Snow as I was. That's when it hit me: this wasn't just a TV show; it was a cultural juggernaut. The question that inevitably arises for any massively popular series is, "What Game of Thrones season had the highest viewers?" The answer, as we'll delve into, isn't as simple as a single, universally declared champion, but rather a fascinating evolution of viewership that peaked dramatically towards the series' conclusion. It's a testament to masterful storytelling, effective marketing, and the power of shared cultural experiences in the modern age.
For many, the final season, particularly the series finale, represents the zenith of Game of Thrones' viewership. This isn't just anecdotal; the data largely supports this assertion. However, to truly understand which Game of Thrones season commanded the highest viewership, we need to dissect the viewing habits that evolved over its eight-year run. It’s a journey that saw the show morph from a niche HBO fantasy drama into a global television event, drawing in millions of viewers across linear television, streaming platforms, and even illegal downloads, though our focus here will be on the officially reported figures that reflect its legitimate audience.
The landscape of television viewership has changed dramatically since Game of Thrones first premiered in 2011. Back then, live viewership was king. Now, with the proliferation of on-demand services and DVRs, measuring a show's true reach is a more complex undertaking. HBO, for its part, has always been adept at reporting its figures, often including a combination of live viewership, same-night encores, DVR playback within three days, and, as the show progressed, its burgeoning streaming numbers. This comprehensive approach paints a more accurate picture of how many people were actually tuning in to experience Westeros, week after week.
So, to directly address the central question: What Game of Thrones season had the highest viewers? While precise, universally agreed-upon single-episode figures can be elusive due to reporting methodologies, the consensus and available data point towards the **eighth and final season** as the period of peak viewership for Game of Thrones. However, it's crucial to understand that this was a gradual ascent, with significant milestones achieved in the preceding seasons as well. The anticipation for the conclusion, coupled with the show's established cultural dominance, propelled its final episodes to unprecedented numbers.
The Ascendancy of Westeros: A Season-by-Season Viewership Journey
To fully appreciate which Game of Thrones season had the highest viewers, let's trace the show's remarkable journey from its humble beginnings to its epic conclusion. The early seasons, while critically acclaimed and building a dedicated fanbase, operated on a more modest scale. However, a powerful synergy between critical praise, word-of-mouth buzz, and HBO's consistent promotion began to fuel a steady, impressive growth in viewership. It wasn't a sudden explosion, but rather a relentless, strategic climb, much like a determined house vying for the Iron Throne itself.
Season 1: The Seed is Planted (2011)
When Game of Thrones first graced our screens on April 17, 2011, it was a bold experiment. Adapting George R.R. Martin's dense fantasy novels for television was no small feat, and its initial viewership reflected a still-developing audience for such material on premium cable. The series premiere, "Winter Is Coming," garnered an average of 2.2 million viewers across its initial airing and two subsequent encores. This might seem modest by today's standards, especially compared to the show's later numbers, but it was a respectable start for HBO, laying the groundwork for something extraordinary.
The season finale, "Fire and Blood," saw a slight uptick, averaging around 2.4 million viewers. While not a dramatic surge, it indicated a growing engagement. This initial phase was crucial; it allowed the intricate world-building, the complex political machinations, and the introduction of a vast array of characters to take root with a core audience. This foundational period was essential for cultivating the deep investment that would later drive massive viewership numbers. It was about earning the loyalty of the viewers, one intriguing plot thread at a time.
Season 2: The War of the Five Kings Ignites (2012)
Season 2, which premiered in April 2012, saw the conflict intensify with the War of the Five Kings. As the narrative became more action-packed and the stakes higher, viewership began to climb more noticeably. The premiere episode, "The North Remembers," pulled in approximately 3.9 million viewers across all airings. This was a significant jump from Season 1, demonstrating that the show had successfully captured the attention of a wider audience and that those who had invested in the first season were eager to see how the story unfolded.
By the end of Season 2, with episodes like "Valar Morghulis" featuring pivotal moments and character developments, the average viewership for the season had risen to around 11.9 million per episode, factoring in various platforms and delayed viewing. This exponential growth was a clear signal that Game of Thrones was no longer just a niche hit; it was becoming a bona fide television phenomenon. The word was out, and people were talking. The intrigue and brutality of Westeros were proving to be a potent cocktail for television audiences.
Season 3: The Red Wedding and Beyond (2013)
Season 3, which aired in March and June 2013, is perhaps most infamous for "The Rains of Castamere," the episode that brought us the "Red Wedding." This season saw viewership continue its upward trajectory, further cementing the show's status. The season premiere, "Valar Dohaeris," was watched by around 4.4 million viewers. The impact of the "Red Wedding" episode was immense, not just in terms of emotional devastation for viewers but also in its contribution to the show's growing popularity. While specific viewership spikes for that single episode are hard to isolate cleanly within overall season averages, the buzz it generated undoubtedly contributed to higher tune-in rates for subsequent episodes.
On average, Season 3 reached about 14.4 million viewers per episode across all platforms. This was a remarkable leap, showcasing the show's increasing cultural relevance. The willingness of the showrunners to take such shocking narrative risks, while undeniably gut-wrenching for fans, proved to be a powerful engine for engagement and discussion, driving more people to watch and find out what would happen next. The show was becoming appointment television for millions.
Season 4: Expanding the Empire (2014)
In 2014, Season 4 continued this trend of escalating viewership. Premiering in April, the season opener, "Two Swords," drew approximately 6.6 million viewers. This was a substantial increase from the previous season's premiere, indicating a sustained and growing interest. The season featured major plot points, including the trial of Tyrion Lannister and the climactic battle at the Wall, all of which kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
The average viewership for Season 4 climbed to an impressive 18.9 million viewers per episode. This solidified Game of Thrones as one of HBO's most successful and talked-about shows, demonstrating its ability to draw massive audiences who were deeply invested in the fate of its characters and the realm. The intricate plotting and the high production values were clearly resonating with a broad demographic.
Season 5: Dragons, White Walkers, and Growing Pains (2015)
Season 5, which aired in April 2015, saw the show delve deeper into the lore with characters like the High Sparrow and Daenerys's struggles in Meereen. The season premiere, "The Wars to Come," attracted about 8 million viewers. This continued the trend of significant year-over-year growth. The narrative complexity and the introduction of new threats, including the ever-present danger of the White Walkers, kept viewers hooked.
By Season 5, the average viewership had reached approximately 20.2 million viewers per episode. This marked a significant milestone, as the show consistently broke its own records. The audience was now firmly established, and the anticipation for each new episode was palpable. HBO's increasing ability to track viewership across various platforms likely also contributed to these rising, more comprehensive figures.
Season 6: The Winds of Winter Bring Record Numbers (2016)
Season 6, premiering in April 2016, was a pivotal season. For the first time, the show had surpassed the source material, venturing into entirely new narrative territory. The season premiere, "The Red Woman," garnered a massive 10.7 million viewers. This was a clear indicator that the show had transcended its fantasy roots to become a mainstream cultural event. The cliffhanger ending of Season 5, concerning Jon Snow's fate, undoubtedly contributed to this record-breaking premiere.
The average viewership for Season 6 surged to an astounding 25.7 million viewers per episode. This was a monumental achievement, showcasing the show's unparalleled ability to captivate a global audience. The storytelling, despite moving beyond the books, had clearly maintained its power to engage and fascinate viewers, proving that the quality of the narrative and production could carry the show forward effectively.
Season 7: The Long Wait and The Great War (2017)
Season 7, which aired in July 2017, was notable for its shortened episode count (seven episodes) and its later summer premiere. Despite the changes, anticipation was at an all-time high. The premiere, "Dragonstone," shattered previous records, drawing an incredible 16.1 million viewers across all platforms. This was a clear testament to the show's immense popularity and the intense demand for its return, even after a longer-than-usual hiatus.
The average viewership for Season 7 reached a staggering 32.2 million viewers per episode. This figure represented a significant leap, driven by the escalating conflict, the long-awaited convergence of characters, and the looming threat of the Night King's army. The show was now officially one of the most-watched series in television history, a true cultural phenomenon that had captured the world's imagination.
Season 8: The Final Battle for the Iron Throne (2019)
And then came Season 8. Premiering in April 2019, the final season was the culmination of years of build-up, speculation, and intense fan engagement. The premiere episode, "Winterfell," achieved a monumental 17.4 million viewers in its initial airing across HBO platforms. This was a record-breaking number, eclipsing even the massive numbers of Season 7's premiere. It demonstrated an unprecedented level of anticipation and a desire from audiences to witness the conclusion of the epic saga.
The subsequent episodes, particularly the series finale, "The Iron Throne," are widely reported to have garnered the highest viewership figures for any single episode of Game of Thrones. While precise final consolidated numbers can vary slightly depending on the reporting outlet and the metrics used (live + same day, 3-day DVR, 7-day, streaming), the finale alone is estimated to have been watched by well over 19 million viewers across all HBO platforms in the immediate days following its release. When considering the average across the entire season, Season 8 solidified its position as the period with the highest overall viewership for Game of Thrones, with figures often cited in the range of over 44 million viewers per episode when all viewing methods are accounted for over an extended period. This represents the absolute peak of the show's viewership, a testament to its immense cultural impact and the global fascination it commanded.
Key Factors Driving Peak Viewership in Game of Thrones
It's clear that Season 8 of Game of Thrones is the season that garnered the highest viewers. But what exactly propelled this epic series to such stratospheric heights, particularly in its final act? It wasn't just one element; it was a confluence of factors that, over nearly a decade, built an audience that was both massive and intensely engaged. Let's break down these key drivers:
- Masterful Storytelling and Character Development: At its core, Game of Thrones was a masterclass in narrative. The intricate plotlines, the moral ambiguity of its characters, and the willingness to take bold, often shocking risks resonated deeply with viewers. Audiences became genuinely invested in the fates of individuals like Tyrion, Daenerys, Jon Snow, and Arya, making the unfolding drama incredibly compelling. The showrunners, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, along with the source material from George R.R. Martin, crafted a world that felt lived-in and characters that felt real, despite the fantasy setting. This deep emotional connection is paramount for sustained and growing viewership.
- Escalating Stakes and Global Threats: As the series progressed, the threats escalated from political squabbles and personal vendettas to an existential threat from the White Walkers. This broadening scope naturally attracted a wider audience and intensified the urgency of the narrative. The impending doom of Westeros against an unstoppable force created a unifying goal for the remaining characters, and by extension, the viewers. The battle for the Iron Throne became secondary to the battle for survival, raising the stakes to an unprecedented level.
- The "Watercooler Effect" and Social Media: Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon that transcended traditional television viewing. It fostered an unparalleled "watercooler effect," where viewers felt compelled to discuss the latest twists and turns with friends, family, and colleagues. The rise of social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit amplified this effect exponentially. Live-tweeting during episodes became a communal experience, with millions engaging in real-time commentary, speculation, and reaction. This constant buzz generated by social discourse created a feedback loop, driving more people to watch so they wouldn't be left out of the conversation. It became a shared global event.
- HBO's Premium Brand and Distribution: As an HBO original, Game of Thrones benefited from the network's reputation for high-quality, prestige television. HBO also had a sophisticated distribution strategy, offering the show not only through its traditional cable channels but also via its streaming service, HBO Go, and later HBO Now (now Max). This flexibility allowed viewers to watch on their preferred devices and at their convenience, contributing to higher consolidated viewership numbers. HBO's marketing prowess also played a significant role in building anticipation.
- Anticipation for the Conclusion: The prolonged wait between seasons, especially between Season 7 and Season 8, and the knowledge that the story was heading towards its definitive end, amplified anticipation to fever pitch. Fans had invested years in this world and its characters, and the desire to see how it all concluded was immense. This pent-up demand, combined with the narrative's natural momentum, naturally led to peak viewership for the final season. The narrative arc was coming to a close, and everyone wanted to be there for the final act.
- The "Must-See TV" Factor: In an era of overwhelming content choices, Game of Thrones achieved a rare "must-see TV" status. Its critical acclaim, widespread discussion, and shocking moments made it an event that people felt they *had* to watch to stay culturally relevant. The fear of spoilers, coupled with the sheer excitement of being part of a global phenomenon, drove millions to tune in live or shortly after.
The journey to peak viewership was a carefully orchestrated ascent, mirroring the rise of powerful houses in Westeros. Each season built upon the last, creating a dedicated fanbase that grew exponentially, culminating in the monumental success of the final season. The show's ability to weave complex narratives, deliver breathtaking spectacle, and foster a global conversation is a testament to its status as one of the most impactful television series of all time.
Understanding the Viewership Metrics: How HBO Counts its Crowds
When we talk about "highest viewers," it's essential to understand how these numbers are calculated, especially for a show like Game of Thrones that aired across multiple platforms and viewing windows. HBO, like most major broadcasters, employs a multifaceted approach to viewership tracking. This comprehensive methodology ensures that the reported figures reflect the true reach and engagement of their flagship series. It's not just about who tuned in at 9 PM on a Sunday night anymore.
Live + Same Day (L+SD)
This is the most basic metric, representing the number of people who watched the episode live as it aired, plus those who watched it on DVR or streaming services within the same 24-hour period. For early seasons of Game of Thrones, L+SD was a primary indicator of success. However, as viewing habits evolved, this metric alone became less indicative of a show's overall popularity.
Live + 3 Days (L+3)
This metric expands on L+SD by including viewers who watched the episode within three days of its initial airing, typically through DVR playback or on-demand services. This captures a significant portion of the audience that doesn't watch live but catches up relatively quickly. For Game of Thrones, L+3 numbers showed a substantial increase over L+SD, reflecting the growing trend of time-shifted viewing.
Live + 7 Days (L+7)
This is a more comprehensive measure, including all viewership within seven days of the initial broadcast. It accounts for viewers who might have missed the initial airings and the immediate catch-up window but still watched within the first week. L+7 figures consistently showed higher numbers for Game of Thrones as the series progressed, indicating its ability to retain viewers over a longer period.
Across All Platforms (Consolidated Viewership)
For later seasons of Game of Thrones, HBO began reporting consolidated viewership across all its platforms, including linear television, HBO Go, HBO Now, and other digital offerings. This "total audience" metric is the most expansive and often the one that yields the highest numbers. It reflects the show's widespread availability and its ability to draw viewers through multiple avenues. The figures for Season 8, often cited as "over 44 million viewers per episode," are typically based on these consolidated numbers, accumulated over an extended viewing window (often 30 days or more) and across all available platforms.
Why These Numbers Matter for "Highest Viewers"
When discussing "What Game of Thrones season had the highest viewers," it's important to specify which metric is being used. However, given the trends:
- Early Seasons: L+SD and L+3 were the primary indicators.
- Mid-Seasons: L+7 and initial consolidated numbers began to show significant growth.
- Final Seasons (7 & 8): Consolidated viewership across all platforms became the most telling metric, showcasing the show's peak cultural penetration and the immense anticipation for its conclusion.
The Global Reach of Game of Thrones
It’s easy to get lost in the domestic U.S. numbers, but the question of "What Game of Thrones season had the highest viewers" also demands a global perspective. Game of Thrones wasn't just an American phenomenon; it was a worldwide sensation. Its broadcast and distribution deals spanned virtually every corner of the globe, making it accessible to billions. This international appeal was a critical component of its overall viewership and cultural impact.
International Broadcasts and Piracy
HBO partnered with numerous international broadcasters to bring Game of Thrones to audiences worldwide. In many regions, episodes aired very close to their U.S. premiere, often within hours. This minimized the window for spoilers and fostered a sense of global shared experience. However, the show's immense popularity also led to widespread piracy. While illegal downloads and streams are not officially counted in viewership numbers, they undeniably represent a massive, albeit unquantifiable, audience. Many sources suggest that Game of Thrones was consistently among the most pirated shows in the world, further underscoring its global reach and demand.
Impact on Global Pop Culture
The show's influence extended far beyond viewership figures. It permeated global pop culture, influencing fashion, language, and even baby names. The discussions and memes surrounding the show could be found in virtually every country, making it a truly global cultural touchstone. This widespread engagement, while not directly measurable in viewership statistics, is an undeniable indicator of its immense reach. When considering which season had the highest viewers globally, it's safe to assume that the trend mirrored the U.S. – the final seasons, particularly Season 8, experienced the highest global tune-in and engagement, amplified by both legitimate broadcasts and the pervasive nature of online sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Game of Thrones Viewership
What was the most-watched episode of Game of Thrones?
The title of the most-watched episode of Game of Thrones almost certainly belongs to the series finale, "The Iron Throne," which aired on May 19, 2019. While exact, consolidated, long-term figures can be debated based on reporting methodology and timeframes, initial reports indicated that the episode garnered enormous viewership. For instance, within three days of its release, it was estimated to have been watched by over 19.5 million viewers across HBO's platforms in the United States alone. When considering the full spectrum of viewing – live airings, subsequent encores, DVR, HBO Go, HBO Now, and other digital platforms – the consolidated number for "The Iron Throne" would have significantly surpassed any other episode in the series' history, likely well into the 20 million to 25 million viewer range for its initial week of availability in the US. This cemented its status as the pinnacle of the show's viewership, reflecting the culmination of years of anticipation and a global audience eager to witness the conclusion of the epic saga. The sheer number of people tuning in for the final moments of this cultural phenomenon underscores its massive impact on television history.
It's important to note that while live viewership for the finale was exceptionally high, the consolidated figures, which include all forms of viewing over a period, are what truly represent the episode's dominance. This comprehensive tracking methodology by HBO is crucial for understanding the show's immense reach, especially in its final seasons. The desire to see how the complex storylines resolved, who would ultimately claim the Iron Throne, and the fate of beloved (and reviled) characters drove an unprecedented number of viewers to tune in, making "The Iron Throne" the undisputed champion of Game of Thrones episodes in terms of audience size.
Which Game of Thrones season had the highest average viewers?
The **eighth and final season** of Game of Thrones holds the record for the highest average viewership per episode. This is primarily due to the show's peak popularity and the immense anticipation surrounding its conclusion. While the season had only six episodes, compared to the ten episodes of earlier seasons, the average viewership numbers, when all viewing platforms and time-shifted viewing are accounted for (consolidated viewership), were staggering. For instance, HBO reported that the season averaged over 44 million viewers per episode in the United States across all platforms within 30 days of its initial release. This figure represents the show's absolute zenith in terms of audience engagement and is a testament to its status as a global television phenomenon. Even with fewer episodes, the aggregate viewership for Season 8 far surpassed any previous season, solidifying its position as the most-watched season in the show's history.
This high average viewership for Season 8 is a direct result of several factors: the culmination of an eight-year narrative arc, the intense "watercooler effect" driven by social media, and a global audience eager to experience the final chapter of the acclaimed series. The strategic decision to release fewer, longer episodes for the final season, coupled with the heightened anticipation, created an environment where almost every available viewer tuned in, making the average per episode exceptionally high. It was the culmination of years of build-up, and the audience responded in overwhelming numbers.
Why did Game of Thrones viewership grow so much over the seasons?
The remarkable growth in Game of Thrones viewership over its eight seasons can be attributed to a powerful combination of factors that created a virtuous cycle of engagement and popularity. It wasn't a single event but a sustained build-up, much like Westeros itself growing in power and influence.
- Word-of-Mouth and Critical Acclaim: Initially, the show garnered critical praise for its mature themes, complex characters, and high production values, which were unusual for the fantasy genre. This positive buzz encouraged early adopters to watch and recommend it to others. As more people watched, the word-of-mouth effect intensified, drawing in viewers who might not typically be drawn to fantasy.
- Escalating Narrative Stakes: The story progressively became more complex and the stakes higher. From political intrigue in Season 1, the show evolved to encompass epic battles, dragon warfare, and the existential threat of the White Walkers. This escalating drama naturally attracted a broader audience and kept existing viewers deeply invested. The narrative kept expanding its scope and its ambition, which appealed to a wider range of tastes.
- The Rise of Social Media and Shared Experience: Game of Thrones became a global social media event. The intense discussions, theories, and reactions on platforms like Twitter and Reddit created an unparalleled "watercooler effect." Viewers felt compelled to watch live so they could participate in the conversation and avoid spoilers. This communal viewing experience, amplified by online platforms, made the show feel like a shared cultural moment, driving millions to tune in. It was no longer just about watching a show; it was about being part of a global conversation.
- Accessibility and Distribution: HBO's consistent distribution across its cable network, its streaming services (HBO Go, HBO Now/Max), and international partnerships made the show increasingly accessible. As viewing habits shifted towards on-demand and streaming, HBO's robust digital offerings allowed the show to reach audiences who might not have had traditional cable subscriptions. This adaptability in distribution was crucial for capturing a modern, diverse audience.
- Shocking Storytelling and Character Investment: The show's willingness to kill off major characters and deliver shocking plot twists (like the Red Wedding) generated immense discussion and kept viewers on edge. This unpredictability, coupled with deep character development, fostered intense emotional investment, making people desperate to see what would happen next. Audiences became deeply attached to the characters, and the high stakes meant their fates were never certain.
How did HBO report Game of Thrones viewership?
HBO employed a sophisticated and evolving methodology to report Game of Thrones viewership, reflecting the changing landscape of television consumption. Initially, for the early seasons, the primary metrics were Live + Same Day (L+SD) and Live + 3 Days (L+3) DVR playback. These numbers indicated immediate audience engagement and early catch-up viewing.
As the show's popularity soared and viewing habits shifted, HBO began to place greater emphasis on more comprehensive metrics. This included Live + 7 Days (L+7) data, which accounted for viewers who watched within the first week of the episode's release. This was crucial as more people adopted DVRs and on-demand viewing. Furthermore, for the later seasons, particularly Season 7 and 8, HBO released what they termed "Total Audience" or "Consolidated Viewership" numbers. These figures aggregated viewership across all of HBO's platforms – including linear cable broadcasts, HBO Go, HBO Now (which later became part of Max), and other digital streaming services – typically over a 30-day period following the premiere. This comprehensive approach provided the most accurate picture of the show's massive reach and impact, often resulting in figures that were significantly higher than same-day or weekly totals. By adapting its reporting to include these broader metrics, HBO was able to showcase the true scale of Game of Thrones' success in the modern media environment.
Was Game of Thrones the most-watched show on television during its final seasons?
During its final seasons, particularly Seasons 7 and 8, Game of Thrones was unequivocally the most-watched drama series on television in the United States, and arguably one of the most-watched scripted series globally. While other network shows might have had higher *live* viewership on a single night due to broader traditional broadcast reach, Game of Thrones consistently achieved higher *consolidated* viewership numbers when accounting for all platforms and delayed viewing. HBO's reported figures, averaging well over 40 million viewers per episode for Season 8 across all platforms in the US, dwarfed the competition. This made it not just the most-watched show on HBO, but a dominant force in the entire television landscape. Its cultural impact and the sheer volume of engagement solidified its position as a television titan during its final, epic run.
Conclusion: The Enduring Reign of Game of Thrones Viewership
When we ask, "What Game of Thrones season had the highest viewers?", the data points unequivocally to the **eighth and final season**. This peak viewership was not an accident but the result of a decade-long journey of masterful storytelling, strategic audience building, and cultural phenomenon creation. From its modest beginnings, the show meticulously cultivated a global fanbase, driven by compelling narratives, unforgettable characters, and an escalating sense of urgency. The final season, fueled by years of anticipation and the promise of a definitive conclusion, captured the world's attention like few television events before it.
The way HBO tracked and reported viewership evolved alongside the show's popularity, moving from traditional live ratings to comprehensive consolidated figures that captured the full extent of its reach across various platforms. This evolution allowed the true scale of Game of Thrones' success to be recognized, especially in its final years. The phenomenon of "appointment viewing" was revitalized by the show, amplified by social media, and solidified by its status as a must-see cultural event. Even with fewer episodes, the average viewership for Season 8, when calculated comprehensively, set new benchmarks, making it the undisputed leader in the show's viewership history.
The legacy of Game of Thrones extends far beyond its viewership numbers. It redefined what was possible in television drama, proving that fantasy could achieve mainstream appeal and critical acclaim on par with any other genre. Its impact on storytelling, production values, and the way audiences engage with television is undeniable. While other shows may have come and gone, the reign of Game of Thrones, particularly in terms of its viewership peak during its final season, remains a monumental achievement in the annals of television history. It was a testament to the power of a well-told story to capture the imagination of millions, making Westeros a place that, for a time, felt like it was on everyone's mind.