Paramount Global will simulcast its MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) on broadcast network CBS this year, the company announced on Thursday.
It marks the first time that the VMAs have aired beyond the cable and satellite TV bundle, though the awards show typically simulcasts across Paramount’s portfolio of general entertainment channels as part of a bid to boost ratings and “win” the evening that it airs.
The VMAs last year attracted 4.08 million viewers across Paramount’s cable and satellite networks — a figure that included the live telecast and two encore replays — up 8 percent compared to the 2023 awards show, which was viewed by 3.78 million.
Putting the show on CBS will give the VMAs broader reach on free broadcast television across the country, as well as on Paramount Plus with Showtime for subscribers who pay extra to access their local CBS station or affiliate over streaming.
It will also simulcast on MTV 2, BET, BET Her, CMT, Comedy Central, Logo, Nickelodeon, Paramount Network, Pop TV, TV Land and VH1, Paramount said.
The show airs Sunday, September 7 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
