It’s Official – MTV Is Shutting Down Its Music Channels

It’s the end of an era as MTV shuts down iconic music channels outside of the US due to low viewership.

By December 31, 2025 MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, MTV Live, and Club MTV will reach the end of their run as they cease to air. These channels, a global symbol of music and entertainment, were the source of some of the most iconic moments in music history.

It was announced by Paramount Global on October 10 that these cherished channels will soon be off air. As this four-decade long reign of MTV music unfortunately comes to an end outside of the US, these channels will leave behind a legacy that won’t be forgotten.

 

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As viewing habits and music culture have changed drastically in recent years, this result doesn’t come as much of a surprise, especially considering the dominance of TikTok and YouTube.

But it’s safe to say that the channels were the focal point of some of the most relevant moments in music culture history.

From Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ to Britney Spears’ ‘…Baby One More Time’, MTV music played host to some of the most iconic music video premieres ever.

@7minutesinhistory First music video on mtv 😲 #fypシ #xyzbca #history #historymemes #learnontiktok #mtv #rocknroll #music #musichistory #historical #80s #musicvideo ♬ Monkeys Spinning Monkeys – Kevin MacLeod & Kevin The Monkey

Its impact went beyond the music itself and created a visual platform for artists and fans alike, which has unfortunately become outdated in today’s entertainment sphere.

You can’t talk about MTV music and not mention the MTV Music Video Awards. Since 1984, the MTV Awards have been some of the most unforgettable nights in entertainment history – almost serving as a timeline of pop music since the 80s to this day.

Watch some of these iconic moments below.

 

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These channels will continue to air in the US for the time being, but as they shut down internationally – this may be the beginning of the end for MTV music.

As we say goodbye to MTV music and reflect on its substantial impact over the years, it’s safe to say that we really don’t appreciate something until it’s gone!

Words by Leah Foran