End of an era: iconic channel MTV shuts down in Europe

Unable to withstand competition from social media

The legendary music channel MTV, owned by film giant Paramount, will cease broadcasting in the United Kingdom and EU countries after 30 years on air. As of December 31, 2025, five of its music channels – MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live – will go off the air.

Only the flagship channel MTV HD will remain, shifting its focus to reality shows such as Naked Dating UK and Geordie Shore.

According to NME, the decision reflects changing viewing habits – today, audiences are far more likely to watch music videos on YouTube and social media than on television. Another factor may be the media company’s new cost-cutting strategy, aimed at reducing expenses by 500 million dollars.

MTV first went on air in the United States in 1981 and quickly captured public attention with its music videos and vibrant, charismatic hosts. The first video ever broadcast was Video Killed the Radio Star by The Buggles.

Among other landmark moments were the premiere of Michael Jackson’s legendary Thriller video featuring dancing zombies, the Live Aid concerts in 1985, and the establishment of the MTV Video Music Awards.

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