MTV has officially retired its dedicated music video channels, marking the end of an era in music television.
After more than 40 years of broadcasting, MTV has shut down its remaining music video channels as of January 1, following a strategic decision by Paramount Global to reduce costs across its media operations. This move brings an end to platforms that once defined music television, including MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live, in several countries, such as the UK, Ireland, France, Poland, Australia, and Brazil.
The closure of these channels coincides with Paramount’s $8.4 billion merger with Skydance, which has prompted a reevaluation of operational expenditures. The music channels, known for their non-stop rotation of music videos, played a pivotal role in shaping pop culture, having hosted some of the most memorable events in music history. For instance, they aired the world premiere of Michael Jackson’s iconic ‘Thriller’ video and provided extensive coverage of the legendary Live Aid concert in 1985. Additionally, MTV was responsible for launching the MTV Video Music Awards, a staple in the entertainment calendar.
Despite the closure of its dedicated music channels, MTV’s flagship channel remains on air, shifting its focus towards reality television and other pop culture programming. In a symbolic farewell, the final music video played on the station was the Buggles’ ‘Video Killed The Radio Star,’ a fitting tribute as it was the very first video to air when MTV launched in the United States in 1981.
MTV’s journey in Australia began in 1987, where it aired as a music video show hosted by Richard Wilkins for six years. It later resumed operations in Australia as a music video channel on Optus Television and was subsequently added to Austar and Foxtel. The cessation of these beloved channels marks a significant moment in music history, as they were once a driving force in promoting artists and shaping industry trends.
