Could this be the end of an era? MTV fans were heartbroken to learn that some of its channels will be shutting down by the end of the year. The news came after Paramount Global, MTV’s owner, merged with Skydance Media, which made headlines amid CBS’ shocking cancelation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. CBS said the late-night show’s cancelation was a “financial decision.”
Launched in 1981, MTV became the hottest channel to premiere music videos, with one of the most memorable releases being Michael Jackson‘s “Thriller.” MTV also aired the 1985 Live Aid concert and introduced the MTV Video Music Awards, a long-standing staple at the network.
Here’s what we know so far about the MTV multi-channel shutdown and what it means for the network.
Who Owns MTV?
MTV is owned by Paramount Media Networks, which merged with Skydance Media in 2025.
Is MTV Shutting Down?
No, MTV is not shutting down entirely. Rumors quickly circulated online, however, after the BBC reported that several well-known channels in the U.K. and parts of Europe were ending.
Which MTV Music Channels Are Shutting Down?
Five MTV music channels in the U.K. and various regions of Europe will be shut down by December 31, 2025: MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, MTV Live and Club MTV.
Former MTV VJ Simone Angel told BBC News that she was “really sad, and I’m a little bit in disbelief, and I know it’s been a long time coming.”
“We need to support these artists, and we all need to dance again and listen to music,” Simone continued. “And I know we do that online in our own little bubbles, but MTV was the place where everything came together. So, it really does break my heart.”
Which MTV Channels Will Stay on the Air?
American MTV channels, including MTV, MTV2, MTV Live and MTV Classic, appear to be unaffected by the forthcoming changes.
Why Is MTV Shutting Down Multiple Channels?
Neither Paramount nor Skydance explained the reason behind the multi-channel cancelation, but MTV has made a significant switch to reality TV throughout the 2000s. In 2023, MTV News was axed, leading to layoffs in the company.
