Last year’s MTV Video Music Awards were the lowest-viewed in the network’s history — that was, until this year’s ratings came in. According to a report from Variety, the 2018 VMAs saw a slight decline, down 8% from last year with 5.234 million across 11 networks.
However, compared to other awards shows, MTV suffered far less of a ratings drop than other programs including Grammys and the Academy Awards. The VMAs also made up for the lack of viewership with online streaming.
Digital views were way up, according to internal numbers provided by MTV — 141.6 million digital streams make the recent awards show the most-streamed in Viacom history. Social engagement was up 46%, also according to MTV. 
Though viewership was down, the broadcast was no less star-studded than usual. The ceremony boasted live performances from Nicki Minaj, Travis Scott, Aerosmith, and Jennifer Lopez, while Camila Cabello, Post Malone, The Carters and more took home awards for their outstanding music videos. Even Madonna showed up.
See the full list of winners here.
Source: Variety
