'Torchwood' debuts to 500,000 in America

The first episode of Torchwood was watched by 496,000 viewers in the US, according to Nielsen Media Research.

The total viewer number represents a new record for a drama premiere on BBC America. The previous record was set by Robin Hood in March, although the digital cable channel has secured distribution to more households since then.

Only 297,000 viewers in the 25-54 demographic - BBC America's ad-friendly target audience - tuned in. The programme was up against a rerun of Disney Channel's smash-hit High School Musical 2, live college football - Virginia Tech against LSU - on ESPN, and tennis on CBS.

The numbers come despite a generally favourable set of reviews from the American entertainment press.