MTV UK staff have been left ‘in tears’ after the channel’s music production was axed after 30 years.
First launched in 1997, it is responsible for launching the careers of the likes of Cat Deeley, Emma Willis, and Maya Jama.
Bosses have said that the channel ‘will still have a presence’ but there will be no more original music content.
A source told The Sun that generic US shows will be aired alongside rolling music videos on the channel.
Original series Gonzo and Fresh Out UK are among the casualties of the channel shake-up.
‘Everyone at MTV is gutted. To say there has been a bloodbath of cuts would be an understatement,’ the insider continued.
‘Staff have been left in tears as some have been there for decades.
‘Those that are left fear more doom and gloom could be around the corner.’
A spokesman told The Sun that Gonzo and Fresh Out UK would be ‘sunset’ beginning this month.
‘We are deeply grateful to our hosts Jack Saunders and Becca Dudley, the talented artists who have been a part of these series, as well as the teams who brought them to life,’ they said.
‘Fans can continue to enjoy global music shows like the MTV VMAs, STANS and Ozzy Osbourne: No Escape From Now on MTV and Paramount+, alongside digital music content on our MTV UK social channels.’
It comes after the European Music Awards were axed for 2025 by the broadcaster.
It was announced in February that the 2025 MTV EMAs, as well as a slew of other award ceremonies, would be paused by Paramount Global.
CMT Music Awards, the MTV Latin America’s MIAW Awards, and the Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards in Mexico will also be put on hold.
In a statement, Paramount Global executive Bruce Gillmer said that the decision was in order to ‘reimagine and optimise our events slate going forward.’
He added: ‘Our world-class events remain a key component of Paramount’s music offering as we continue to raise the bar in delivering iconic, unforgettable performances and moments that drive pop culture.
‘We have the best team in the business, and we are grateful for your hard work and dedication in bringing these events to life.’
Metro has reached out to representatives at MTV UK for comment
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