MTV VMAs viewership falls to 9.8 million, despite airing on more networks
Miley Cyrus performs at the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards.
Sorry, Miley and Kanye.
Viewership for MTV’s Video Music Awards fell Sunday night to 9.8 million on average, despite airing on 10 networks.
That’s compared with last year’s 10.3 million viewers, who watched via simulcasts on MTV, MTV2, VH1 and Logo TV. This year’s extravaganza added six networks owned by MTV parent company Viacom Inc. -- VH1 Classic, CMT, BET, Centric, Comedy Central and TV Land.
MTV did not say how many people tuned in to the telecast through its home network.
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The 5% drop came despite Miley Cyrus’ much publicized hosting duties. Cyrus famously caused a stir at the 2013 ceremony with her provocative performances.
Nonetheless, last night’s awards show ranked as the highest-rated awards show on cable this year among the age 12-to-34 demographic. The show’s buzzy moments included tension between Cyrus and Nicki Minaj, plus Kanye West announcing a 2020 presidential run.
The VMAs were a big deal on social media, generating 21.4 million tweets, peaking at West’s surprise announcement.
Follow Ryan Faughnder on Twitter for more entertainment business coverage: @rfaughnder
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