Early data shows only 34.3 million viewers tuned in to watch Chris Rock host the Oscars Sunday night, marking a 6 percent drop in Nielsen ratings from 2015's already low numbers and putting the 88th Academy Awards on track to be the least watched since 2008. The 2008 awards, hosted by comedian Jon Stewart, were the least watched ever, with only 32 million people tuning in.
The drop-off in viewership follows controversy over the Oscars' lack of diversity in its nominees, which prompted prominent stars including Will Smith and Spike Lee to boycott the event. Nielsen will release the final audience total on Tuesday.
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