MTV, the world’s first 24-hour music television network, is set to end nearly four decades of continuous music broadcasting in the UK. According to reports, five of its UK music channels, MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live will officially shut down on December 31.
The move marks the end of an era for music television and highlights a major shift in viewing habits, as audiences now consume most of their music content via YouTube, TikTok, and other social media platforms rather than traditional TV. Paramount, MTV’s parent company, has yet to issue an official statement on the closures.
Launched in the United States in 1981, MTV revolutionized music entertainment by introducing the concept of music videos hosted by “video jockeys” (VJs), who became stars in their own right. The channel delivered unforgettable pop culture moments from the premiere of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to the 1985 Live Aid broadcast and the launch of the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).
READ ALSO: Lights, Camera, Faith! BBNaija Star Drops First YouTube Video
MTV expanded into Europe in 1987, with the UK branch launching in 1997, debuting with “Three Lions” by David Baddiel and Frank Skinner as its first video. The network became a breeding ground for television talent, helping launch the careers of presenters like Cat Deeley, Zane Lowe, and Emma Willis. In later years, it shifted toward original reality programming with shows such as Ex On The Beach and Teen Mom UK.
Reports also suggest that Paramount plans to shut down MTV music channels in other regions including Australia, Poland, France, and Brazil as part of a global cost-cutting initiative aimed at saving around $500 million (£376 million). Earlier this year, the company closed its Television Studios division, known for producing Jack Ryan and The Spiderwick Chronicles, and cancelled several UK productions, including Gonzo and Fresh Out UK.
Despite a steady decline in viewership, MTV’s UK channels still attracted modest audiences with MTV Music drawing 1.3 million viewers and MTV 90s reaching 949,000 in July, according to BARB ratings.
