MTV is ending its music channels after 44 years

January 1, 2026 at 9:12 AM

MTV is shutting down its 24-hour music channels in many regions worldwide after today, 44 years after the brand’s initial launch.

This closure affects dedicated music channels like MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV and MTV Live, but the broader MTV brand and network will continue.

The channels are being removed from UK providers such as Sky and Virgin Media, with remaining U.S. music-only feeds also scheduled to go dark as contracts expire.

MTV debuted in the U.S. in 1981 with The Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star,” revolutionizing music and pop culture. (The Independent)