Paramount to shut MTV’s music channels as part of $500 million global cost cuts 

MTV will stop airing its 24-hour pop video channels in the UK after 40 years, marking the end of an era for music television. According to the BBC, MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live will cease broadcasting after 31 December 2025. However, MTV HD, the flagship channel, will remain on air, focusing on reality programming such as Naked Dating UK and Geordie Shore.

Why now?

According to the media organisations, the move shadows consumers increasingly turning towards YouTube and other social media platforms for music videos rather than tuning in to a television. A spokesperson for MTV’s parent company, Paramount Global, declined to comment on the closures.

Former MTV VJ Simone Angel described the move as “heartbreaking”, recalling how the channel once united global audiences through music. “MTV was the place where everything came together. So it really does break my heart,” she told BBC News.

MTV started in the US in 1981 and then moved to Europe in 1987 and the UK in 1997. The network was also responsible for influencing pop culture by showing memorable moments like Michal Jackson’s “Thriller” debut and Live Aid in 1985. Many hosts, such as Cat Deeley and Zane Lowe, launched their careers through this TV channel.

Paramount cutting costs

Recently, MTV has moved away from music and focused more on reality content. The UK channel ended its music programming in 2011. This shutdown is part of a larger effort by Paramount to cut costs and aims for savings of up to $500 million worldwide. Reports suggest MTV’s music channels will also close in Australia, Poland, France, and Brazil.

Earlier this year, Paramount paused the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) amid its merger with Skydance Media, approved in July. The future of the awards show remains uncertain. The company has also wound down Paramount Television Studios, which produced Jack Ryan and The Spiderwick Chronicles, and cancelled MTV UK originals Gonzo and Fresh Out UK.

Despite the closures, MTV will continue to have a presence on Paramount+ and social media platforms.