MTV has reportedly decided to shut down five of its iconic music channels, MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live, by 31 December 2025. The move has marked the end of an era for music fans who have followed the brand’s legacy for over four decades. However, contrary to social media speculation, MTV as a whole has not been shut down, its flagship MTV HD channel continues to broadcast as usual.
As per media reports, the decision has come as part of parent company Paramount’s larger cost-cutting efforts, aimed at reducing global expenses by up to $500 million. The restructuring has reportedly affected several regions, with MTV music channels also being discontinued in countries such as Australia, Poland, France, and Brazil. Earlier this year, Paramount also shut down its Television Studios division, which produced popular series like Jack Ryan and The Spiderwick Chronicles.
In the UK, the budget cuts have reportedly resulted in layoffs and the cancellation of original programs such as Gonzo and Fresh Out UK. Despite the shift, MTV’s music channels have continued to hold a steady viewership, with MTV Music attracting 1.3 million viewers in July and MTV 90s drawing around 949,000, according to recent figures.
Former MTV VJ Simone Angel has reportedly expressed sadness over the closures, saying it “breaks her heart” as MTV was once the place “where everything came together.” Fans online have also reportedly reacted with disbelief and nostalgia, with many initially assuming that MTV was shutting down entirely.
Going forward, the MTV brand has continued to exist through its social media presence and on Paramount’s streaming platform, Paramount+. Since its launch in 1981, MTV has revolutionised the way audiences experience music, beginning with its first-ever broadcast, “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles, and has remained a cultural touchstone ever since.
