Particle.news
Download on the App Store

MTV UK Ends Original British Programming After Nearly 30 Years

Under a new restructuring it will fill schedules with US imports alongside music videos to offset ad revenue declines driven by streaming

Overview

  • MTV UK has quietly closed its UK production arm, ending homegrown programming since its 1997 launch
  • Executives say the channel will maintain a presence with global music shows like the MTV VMAs and digital content on social platforms
  • Series including Gonzo and Fresh Out UK will be shelved starting this month as local offerings give way to imports
  • The pause of this year’s European Music Awards marked the first major event cancellation under the cost-cutting push
  • Insiders describe widespread staff layoffs as a “bloodbath of cuts” reflecting the impact of streaming and social media on advertising revenue