The 2025 Spring Festival Gala, hosted by China Media Group (CMG), has shattered previous records to become the most-watched event in the Gala's history. Drawing an astonishing 16.8 billion views across all media platforms, the event saw an 18.31% increase from last year's viewership. This monumental achievement highlights the global appeal and cultural significance of the Gala, often dubbed the premier entertainment event during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Mobile viewership experienced a significant surge, with 372 million people tuning in via their mobile devices—a 52.46% year-on-year increase. This spike underscores the growing trend of audiences engaging with content on the go and the effectiveness of CMG's digital outreach strategies.
In addition to traditional broadcasts, the Gala set new records in live streaming on domestic new media platforms. By 8 a.m. on Wednesday, total live streaming views reached 2.13 billion, marking a 26.04% rise compared to the previous year. The vertical screen live streaming feature, now in its fourth iteration, attracted 530 million views—up 25.3% from last year—and engaged 300 million users, reflecting a 16.73% increase. This innovative approach to broadcasting demonstrates CMG's commitment to enhancing viewer experience and embracing new technologies.
Moreover, this year's Gala was notable for its inclusive accessibility features designed for visually and hearing-impaired audiences. Visually impaired viewers were able to enjoy the live audio broadcast, while hearing-impaired audiences accessed customized features through CMG's news app and video platforms. The barrier-free broadcasting initiative reached 58.97 million viewers, emphasizing the Gala's dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that the festive celebrations are enjoyed by all.
The unprecedented success of the 2025 Spring Festival Gala not only showcases China's rich cultural heritage but also reflects the event's evolving adaptation to modern viewing habits and technologies. As the Gala continues to break barriers and set new records, it remains a unifying force that brings together audiences from around the world to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
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2025 Spring Festival Gala breaks records with 16.8 bln global views
cgtn.com
