Sky and Virgin Media TV subscribers will see a reduction in channel options starting tomorrow, with several popular music services being removed. The decision to take several MTV stations off the air was initially announced in October, and now viewers have only 24 hours left to enjoy channels like MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live. Updated TV schedules indicate that these iconic channels will cease broadcasting on December 31.
Users trying to access upcoming programming through the TV planner will encounter a message stating, “This channel is now closed.”
The shift towards streaming is cited as the reason behind this change, with MTV being another casualty of the declining viewership of traditional TV. Many now prefer to consume music content on platforms like YouTube or social apps such as TikTok.
According to a source speaking to The Sun, MTV has suffered due to the increasing popularity of streaming services. The source described it as “a dark day for the music industry,” noting that MTV, once a dominant force, has diminished over the years.
Reports suggest that MTV services in parts of Asia, Australia, and Latin America are also facing discontinuation.
While the music-focused channels are being shut down, MTV HD will continue to be available to viewers. The channel will still feature reality programs like Naked Dating UK and Geordie Shore.
MTV has played a significant role in shaping youth culture and launching music and television careers since its inception in 1981, revolutionizing the music industry.
In addition to the MTV changes, four children’s TV channels, including Pop, Tiny Pop, Pop+1, and Tiny Pop+1, will also be permanently removed from the listings by the end of the year.
In total, nine channels will no longer be accessible on Sky and Virgin Media TV.
