For decades, MTV was more than a broadcaster; it was a cultural beacon. It shaped how generations discovered music, trends, fashion, and youth identity.
However, the company has taken a new direction by axing five of its major music channels. According to The UK Sun, Paramount Global is set to shut down five MTV music channels – MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live – by December 31, 2025.
The decision marks a major shift in the network’s operations as Paramount Global restructures its international portfolio amid declining traditional TV viewership. Music audience have largely migrated to digital and social media platforms such as Youtube, Spotify and Tiktok leaving linear music television with dwindling audiences.
By contrast, the core MTV (main channel) will continue – now mostly focused on reality content and non-music programming. Euro News reports that the closures will roll out regionally. In Europe, including the UK and Ireland, shutdowns will begin in phases through 2025. In other markets such as Australia, Latin America, and Asia, similar closures have been reported.
A source told the The UK Sun: “It’s a dark day for the music industry.
“MTV was once an industry powerhouse, but now it is a total shell of its former self.”
The decision reflects a broader truth: audiences no longer wait for music videos on TV.
Streaming platforms, social media short clips, and on-demand video services now dominate how we consume music.
Over the years, MTV Base helped amplify the visibility of African artists through music video rotation, youth programming and initiatives such as the MTV Base VJ Search and the Culture Squad which launched several on-air talents and content creators. The channel also helped raise production standards and fostered cross-continental collaborations within the African entertainment industry.
The global shutdown of MTV’s music channels marks the end of an era for traditional music television once a powerful medium that defined pop culture and music discovery for generations.
