MTV EMAs, CMT Music Awards Paused Ahead of Paramount Merger

MTV and CMT will put some of their major awards shows on ice this year as parent company Paramount Global prepares for a major corporate merger, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Affected shows include the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) and the CMT Music Awards, as well as the MTV Latin America’s MIAW Awards (formerly known as the Millennial Awards). Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards in Mexico will also be put on hold this year.

As it stands, other major tentpole events are still scheduled to go ahead per usual, including MTV’s Video Music Awards and Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards in the United States. 

Paramount Global exec Bruce Gillmer announced the decision in a memo sent to staff, explaining the decision as a chance to “reimagine and optimize our events slate going forward.” He added: “Our world-class events remain a key component of Paramount’s music offering as we continue to raise the bar in delivering iconic, unforgettable performances and moments that drive pop culture. We have the best team in the business, and we are grateful for your hard work and dedication in bringing these events to life.”

Though not mentioned in the memo, the move was likely spurred by Paramount Global’s impending merger with Skydance Media. That deal is expected to close at some point during the first half of this year.

The decision to pause the CMT Music Awards is particularly notable as it’s one of the longest-running awards shows under the Paramount Global umbrella. While it only became known as the CMT Music Awards after a rebrand (and some corporate shuffling) in the early 2000s, the show itself dates all the way back to 1967 when it first launched as the Music City News Awards.

The MTV EMAs have also been around for 30 years now, debuting in November 1994. The show remains a big draw, with last year’s EMAs featuring a career-spanning performance from Busta Rhymes, as well as sets from Raye, Shawn Mendes, Tyler, Teddy Swims, Benson Boone, and more.