Billboard Music Awards - 3 Hours

The Billboard Music Awards will return to ABC for the third year in a row, airing on Sunday, May 19th, 2013, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The 2013 telecast will feature an unforgettable performance by Prince, who will be honored as the recipient of the 2013 Billboard Icon Award.

The 2012 telecast was hosted by Modern Family stars Julie Bowen (“Claire Dunphy”) and Ty Burrell (“Phil Dunphy”), and included performances Justin Bieber, Kelly Clarkson, Nelly Furtado, Linkin Park, LMFAO, Carrie Underwood, Usher, and The Wanted, among others.

Over 6.9 million total viewers tuned in, and it was the #1 broadcast awards show in 2nd quarter among teens (P12-17), and #2 among adults 18-49 and 25-54, as well as women 18-49 and 25-54.  It was also one of ABC’s Top 5 telecasts during May sweeps 2012.

The Billboard Music Award is an honor given by Billboard Magazine, the preeminent publication covering the music business. Finalists are determined by year-end Billboard chart performance, number of downloads, and total airplay. Awards are given for the top album, artist, and single across different genres.

Source: Nielsen C3, 03.26.12 – 06.24.12, excluding sports. May sweeps 2012 was 04.26.12 – 05.23.12.