2020 VMAs On CBS: A New Era for the Awards Show
Introduction
The 2020 VMAs saw a significant increase in ratings, thanks to its move to CBS. This year's show, hosted by Keke Palmer, was the first time the VMAs aired on a major broadcast network. This change has brought a new level of exposure to the awards show, which has traditionally aired on MTV. With the success of this year's broadcast, it seems that the VMAs have found a new home on CBS.
Key Details
The VMAs have always been a highly anticipated event in the music industry, with viewers tuning in to see their favorite artists perform and take home awards. However, in recent years, the ratings for the show have been declining. With the move to CBS, the VMAs reached a wider audience, including those who may not typically tune into MTV. This change has also allowed for more advertising opportunities and potentially attracted a different demographic to the show.
Impact
The move to CBS has not only boosted ratings for the VMAs, but it also has a positive impact on the music industry as a whole. With a larger audience, the artists and their music are reaching more people, potentially leading to increased album sales and streams. This year's show also saw an increase in social media engagement, with fans and artists sharing their favorite moments from the show. The success of the VMAs on CBS has opened up new
About the Organizations Mentioned
CBS
CBS, originally founded in 1927 as the Columbia Broadcasting System, is a major American media company known primarily for its commercial broadcasting, television production, and publishing activities. It began as a radio network established by talent agent Arthur Judson but was soon acquired by William S. Paley, who transformed it into a dominant force in radio by leveraging advertising revenue through large audiences[1][5]. CBS expanded into television early, launching experimental broadcasts in 1931 and pioneering the first color TV broadcast in 1940 from its Chrysler Building transmitter in New York City[1][2]. The network became a leader in television entertainment and news through the mid-20th century, with iconic programs and personalities such as Ed Sullivan, Lucille Ball, and Walter Cronkite contributing to its popularity[3]. CBS also innovated in network news with the Columbia News Service, led by Edward R. Murrow, which established its reputation for serious journalism in the 1930s and 1940s[2]. Throughout its history, CBS diversified into related sectors like recording (Columbia Records) and publishing but eventually refocused on broadcasting and entertainment. It underwent several corporate transformations, including a merger with Westinghouse Electric Corporation in 1995, adoption of the CBS Corporation name, and acquisition by Viacom in 2000. After splitting from Viacom in 2005 and operating independently, CBS re-merged with Viacom in 2019 to form ViacomCBS, which was renamed Paramount Global in 2022. In 2025, CBS became the flagship network of the newly formed Paramount Skydance Corporation following an $8 billion merger with Skydance Media[3][4]. Today, CBS remains a key player in American media, known for its broad programming reach, influential news division, and historical significance in radio and television innovation. Its long-standing presence and adaptability in business and technology make it a cornerstone of the broadcasting industry. CBS’s leadership under President and CEO George Che
MTV
MTV, originally launched as Music Television on August 1, 1981, revolutionized the entertainment industry by becoming the first 24-hour cable channel dedicated to music videos, instantly capturing the attention of youth culture worldwide[1]. Headquartered at 1515 Broadway in New York, MTV quickly evolved from a music video platform into a multimedia powerhouse, shaping global pop culture and launching iconic franchises such as *Jersey Shore*, *The Challenge*, *RuPaul’s Drag Race*, and *Cribs*[1]. Its annual MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) became a marquee event, blending music, celebrity, and spectacle into a cultural touchstone[1]. Over the decades, MTV expanded its portfolio beyond music, producing innovative reality shows, documentaries, and live events, while also diversifying into digital content and social causes[1]. The organization played a pioneering role in integrating technology and media, leveraging cutting-edge production techniques and embracing digital platforms to maintain relevance among younger audiences. MTV Entertainment Studios now oversees a suite of youth-focused brands, including Comedy Central, VH1, and Logo, under the Paramount Global umbrella[2]. Key achievements include MTV’s influence in launching global music trends, its role in the rise of reality TV, and its advocacy for social issues—most notably through campaigns like “Rock the Vote” and its partnership in Mental Health Action Day[6]. However, the brand’s shift away from music-centric programming in the 2000s sparked debate, leading to a recent strategic pivot: in 2025, Paramount Global announced the closure of several dedicated music channels, including MTV Music, MTV 80s, and MTV 90s, marking the end of an era for linear music television[3][5]. Simultaneously, MTV signaled a revival of its “music-first” branding in Europe, indicating a nuanced approach to its global strategy[4]. Today, MTV remains a leading multimedia brand for youth, balancing legacy content with digital innovation
