Foxtel is shutting its music channels and instead entering a deal with ViacomCBS.
Foxtel’s Max and Channel [V] will be axed after 25 years, along with CMC (Country Music Channel), at the end of June. Following the closure of the channels, 10 staff at Foxtel will exit the business.
In their place, the News Corp-owned broadcaster has secured a deal with ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI), giving it music channels across rock, pop, country, R&B and a new child-friendly channel.
From July, Foxtel subscribers will have access to MTV Hits, MTV Classic, Club MTV, CMT (Country Music Television) and the new Nick Music, a music video channel for 4-15 year olds.
The expanded portfolio will be owned and operated by VCNI with the MTV and CMT-branded channels all programmed in Australia for local audiences.
“We are delighted to forge this new, ground-breaking partnership with ViacomCBS which reaffirms Foxtel’s commitment to music television designed for Australian audiences,” Amanda Laing, Foxtel chief commercial officer, says.
“The agreement continues the refresh of Foxtel’s channel line-up and provides our customers with an even greater choice of music genres.”
The new agreement with VCNI also includes the renewal of Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. and MTV on the Foxtel platform.
“Expanding ViacomCBS Networks International’s portfolio of music channels allows us to build even deeper relationships with Australian music fans, artists and labels,” Bruce Gillmer, ViacomCBS EVP, music and talent programming/events says.
“These branded channels resonate with music fans all over the world and launching in Australia gives us even more opportunity to bring audiences great music across genres.”
Foxtel executive director of TV Brian Walsh says music remains “strategically important” to Foxtel.
“We are proud of the heritage of our owned and operated music channels and the success they have enjoyed entertaining Foxtel customers for the past 25 years,” Walsh says.
“I want to acknowledge the management and music teams, past and present, who created Channel V, Max and CMC.
“Creating a great entertainment experience for our subscribers means constant renewal in every aspect of our business and our partnership with Viacom provides a fresh, new direction for music on Foxtel.”
Foxtel has been hit by the coronavirus pandemic, which has caused it to lose its live sports content. Early last month the broadcaster cut 200 staff, with another 140 stood down to the end of June.
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