MTV to shut down several music channels after 40-year run

After over four decades on air, music television giant MTV is set to shut down five channels: MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live by 31 December 2025.

MTV’s decision, owned by Paramount Global, is influenced by the changing habits of music audiences and viewers toward online streaming platforms and short videos. 

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This is according to The Economic Times.

MTV

MTV, created in 1981, is the first 24-hour music channel established in America and has since spread to many other countries in the region.

Since MTV was created, these channels have been central to pop culture, music, and youth identity.

The closures will first take effect in the United Kingdom and Ireland. It is also expected to spread to other European countries, including France, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Australia, and Brazil.

Closure

Experts say viewing habits have shifted toward digital and streaming platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Spotify, which is allegedly prompting MTV’s decision as part of Paramount Global’s broader cost-cutting and restructuring plan.

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Meanwhile, the main MTV channel (MTV HD) will continue broadcasting, focusing mainly on reality and entertainment rather than music videos.

The closure of major MTV stations in Europe follows Paramount Global’s recent merger with Skydance Media and is part of a strategy to reduce costs by about $500 million globally.

For many fans, this marks the end of an era. For over four decades, MTV’s music channels have defined music discovery, fashion trends, and youth culture.