The Challenge Season 40 Premieres To Best Demo Ratings In 3 Years

Los Angeles, Calif. – The Challenge Season 40, which premiered Wednesday, February 15, 2023, on MTV, has drawn its largest audience in three years among viewers aged 18-49, according to Nielsen data.

Strong Ratings and Viewership

The season premiere boasted a 0.78 rating in the key demographic, up 23% from the Season 39 premiere in 2022 and the highest since Season 37 in 2021.

Overall, The Challenge Season 40 premiere drew 677,000 total viewers, a 12% increase from last season’s premiere and the largest audience for a Challenge premiere since Season 38 in 2022.

Cast and Competition

The new season features a cast of 24 returning competitors, including fan favorites Tori Deal, Jordan Wiseley, and Fessy Shafaat.

The contestants will face a series of physical and mental challenges in locations around the world, aiming to win a share of the $1 million prize.

“We’re thrilled with the strong ratings and audience reception for The Challenge Season 40,” said Nina Diaz, President of Content and Chief Creative Officer of MTV Entertainment Group. “This season promises to deliver even more excitement and drama for our fans.”

Outlook and Future

The positive ratings for The Challenge Season 40 suggest that the reality competition series remains a popular draw for young viewers.

MTV has already announced that The Challenge: Ride or Dies, a spin-off featuring teams of two battling for a chance at $1 million, will premiere later this year.