In a further sign of the rapidly changing media landscape, Foxtel has confirmed it will no longer host the MTV channel on its platform, effective August 1st.
This development follows the recent news that viewers will also miss out on children’s favourites, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.
MTV (Channel 122) has been a beloved destination for fans of reality TV series such as Geordie Shore, Teen Mom, and The Hills New Beginnings. The distribution of all three channels to Foxtel was overseen by Paramount ANZ.
A Foxtel spokesperson explained the decision, noting the drastic shifts in viewing patterns over recent years.
“With audiences flocking to on-demand and streaming options, and an increasing array of third-party apps now a part of Foxtel, our channel offerings have been adapting to reflect these new habits,”
While MTV’s reality content may be departing, music enthusiasts can take solace. MTV’s musical channels will continue to be accessible to Foxtel subscribers, with MTV Classic set to undergo a rebranding as ‘MTV 80’s’ from the start of August.
The departure of MTV reality programming from Foxtel comes at the same time industry speculation is indicating Channel 10 is preparing to add a dedicated MTV to its 10play streaming platform.
A spokesperson for 10 telling TV Blackbox,
“All the MTV content that audiences know and love will now have a home across all Paramount’s owned and operating platforms.
Further details will be made available soon.”
The reduction in channels at Foxtel comes as the pay-tv platform looks to offset its significant programming costs by moving toward an aggregation model.
Such moves underscore Foxtel’s approach of embracing third-party services, allowing them to forego the need for exclusive content investments. In a telling statistic, over two-thirds of Foxtel subscribers also use at least one other streaming service.
The company’s data highlights a shift from traditional channels to an increasing preference for On Demand.
“A diverse pipeline of content is slated for on-demand, from our international studio partners, as well as a burgeoning array of Australian Originals.
Foxtel’s IQ set-top boxes now offer 14 integrated apps, reflecting this trend, with more additions anticipated soon. The seamless incorporation of services like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and ABC Kids, among others, demonstrates Foxtel’s commitment to keeping pace with the ever-evolving entertainment sector.
I was wondering why the new season of Teen Mom wasn’t on Binge. I hope tenplay picks up mtv soon.
Only MTV or music channels MTV too?
Ten is now CBS what is Paramount Makes Sense. Who knows MTV could be come a new channel on 10 free air.
Bring back the MTV classics. And drop the MTV 80’s , classics are the best and I will start watching again.