Daijiworld Media Network - News York

New York, Jan 3: MTV, the iconic music television channel that shaped global pop culture for over four decades, has officially shut down its round-the-clock music video channels, marking the end of an era in music broadcasting.

The shutdown took effect on December 31, bringing to a close nearly 40 years of continuous music video programming. Channels taken off air include MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV and MTV Live, owned by Paramount Media Networks.

In the United Kingdom, these channels were removed from platforms such as Sky and Virgin Media. Similar closures have been reported across several countries including Ireland, Germany, Austria, France, Poland, Hungary, Australia and Brazil.

MTV HD will continue to broadcast in the UK, though it will focus primarily on reality-based programming rather than music videos. In the United States, MTV and MTV Classic are currently expected to continue operations beyond the New Year.

The final broadcast was symbolic, with Video Killed the Radio Star by The Buggles — the first music video aired when MTV launched in 1981 — played as the channel signed off, evoking nostalgia among viewers worldwide.

Before going off air, MTV released a special farewell music video thanking fans for their support over the years. Former MTV VJ Simone Angel described the moment as deeply emotional, saying the channel was where “everything came together” for a generation of music lovers.

Industry observers say the decision reflects changing audience habits, with music videos now largely consumed on digital platforms such as YouTube and social media. Reports also suggest the move is part of broader cost-cutting measures by parent company Paramount Skydance following its recent merger.

Launched in the US in 1981 and later expanded globally, MTV revolutionised the way music, youth culture and visual storytelling were consumed, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the entertainment industry.