MTV is set to shut down five music channels in the UK after December 31, 2025. The move marks a major change for the iconic broadcaster. MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV and MTV Live will all stop broadcasting.
MTV launched in the US in 1981 and quickly became a major home for music videos and music-related programmes. Over the years, the network helped introduce millions of viewers to popular artists and new music. Its video jockeys, or VJs, also became a familiar part of music television.
The main MTV HD channel will remain available in the UK. However, its schedule will continue to focus mainly on reality programmes such as Geordie Shore. As a result, the closures will significantly reduce MTV’s dedicated music programming.
‘Internet killed the radio star’
The rise of YouTube, TikTok and Instagram has changed the way people discover and watch music. Fans can now access music videos, performances and artist content instantly through online platforms. That shift has made dedicated music television channels less important to many viewers.
MTV itself moved away from music programming years ago. In 2011, the main channel largely stopped showing music videos and focused more heavily on reality television. Shows such as Teen Mom and Catfish became part of its new identity.
Music videos and music programmes later moved to smaller sister channels. Now, five of those stations are also facing closure in the UK.
The announcement has sparked a wave of nostalgia online. Some viewers blamed the internet for changing music consumption, while others argued that MTV’s move towards reality television had already weakened its original identity.
Despite the closures, the MTV European Music Awards will continue to air. Paramount is also expected to review its music channels in other markets, including France and Australia.
The shutdown marks another step away from the traditional music television era. Streaming services and social media now play a much bigger role in how audiences discover and enjoy music.
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