Italian TV Ratings Soar: “Don Matteo 15” Dominates Primetime
Italian television viewers flocked to Rai 1 on February 5, 2026, to watch the latest installment of the long-running crime drama, Don Matteo 15. The display outperformed all competitors, including popular news program Striscia la Notizia on Canale 5, securing a commanding lead in the primetime ratings.
A Crossover Event Boosts Viewership
The episode featured a special crossover appearance by Suor Costanza from the series Che Dio ci aiuti, drawing even more viewers to Spoleto via their television screens. The storyline also focused on characters Cecchini and Provvedi, further captivating the audience.
Primetime Performance: A Detailed Look
Don Matteo 15 captivated 4,055,000 viewers, achieving a 23.2% share. This significant viewership demonstrates the enduring popularity of the series, now in its fifteenth season. Striscia la Notizia garnered 1,717,000 viewers with an 11% share, while Un piccolo favore on Rai2 attracted 444,000 viewers (2.4%).
Competition was also fierce on other channels. Coppa Italia – Atalanta-Juventus on Italia1 drew a substantial 3,348,000 viewers (16.3%), and Splendida Cornice on Rai3 reached 929,000 viewers (5.8%). Rete4’s Dritto e Rovescio and La7’s Piazzapulita also secured over 800,000 viewers each.
Access Prime Time: A Battle for Viewers
The access primetime slot saw a competitive landscape. Rai1’s Affari Tuoi led with 4,887,000 viewers (22.4%), surpassing Canale5’s La Ruota della Fortuna, which, despite attracting 4,845,000 viewers (22.2%), appeared to be facing challenges. Gerry Scotti’s show was beaten by Affari Tuoi.
Preserale Programming: Familiar Favorites
In the preserale slot, Rai1’s L’eredità and Caduta Libera continued to be popular choices, attracting 4,767,000 and 2,586,000 viewers respectively. Rai2’s 9-1-1 and Italia1’s C.S.I. – Scena del Crimine also drew significant audiences.
Spoleto: The Heart of “Don Matteo”
The city of Spoleto continues to play a crucial role in the success of Don Matteo. Filming for the fifteenth season took place in Spoleto from September 8 to October 4, 2025, and again from November 10 to November 30, 2025. The series showcases the city’s picturesque locations, including Piazza Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Basilica of Sant’Eufemia.
Filming Resumes in the Historic City
Following initial filming in Formello, the cast and crew returned to Spoleto to capture the essence of the city. Raoul Bova, Nino Frassica, and other cast members were spotted filming throughout Spoleto’s streets and squares.
FAQ
Q: Where is “Don Matteo” filmed?
A: Primarily in Spoleto, Italy, with some scenes filmed in Formello.
Q: What channel airs “Don Matteo”?
A: Rai 1.
Q: Is “Don Matteo” still popular?
A: Yes, the show consistently achieves high ratings, as demonstrated by the February 5, 2026, viewership numbers.
