The series received a 13-episode order for its first season and, unlike most U.S. network shows, all future seasons will feature 13 episodes.David Slade executive produced and directed the first episode. The series premiered on NBC on April 4, 2013. On May 9, 2014, NBC renewed Hannibal for a third season,to premiere on June 4, 2015. It has received critical acclaim, with the performances of the lead actors and the visual style of the show being singled out by critics.