LOS ANGELES, May 22 (Xinhua) -- Leading U.S. TV network CBS has reached a five-year broadcast agreement with Broadway, authorizing it to air the Tony Awards at least through 2018, it was announced on Wednesday.

CBS, which has aired the annual event highlighting Broadway's best since 1978, covered the show based on a year-long pact before 2010, when the agreement was replaced by a three-year deal.

The inking of the latest pact with The Broadway League and the American Theater Wing is evident of the network's commitment to the Tonys, said CBS.

"The Tony Awards give viewers across the country the opportunity to experience the excitement of Broadway theater from their very own living rooms," said Jack Sussman, executive vice president of Specials, Music and Live Events for CBS Entertainment. "We're pleased to renew our commitment to the performing arts and look forward to continuing this great and longstanding partnership by bringing the best of Broadway to primetime television for many years to come."

The 67th Annual Tony Awards will be aired live from the Radio City Music Hall in New York City on June 9. "How I Met Your Mother " actor Neil Patrick Harris returns as the host for the fourth time.

Last year, Tonys drew a total of 6 million viewers, compared to 6.9 million in 2011.