The cable television landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation as cord-cutting accelerates and streaming services continue their rise to dominance. Many cable networks are facing an uncertain future, with some forced to make drastic changes or face a potential shutdown. This comes as reports are out that cable TV networks could lose up to 20 million subscribers over the next few years, pushing some networks to be forced to shut down. It also comes as reports are coming out that Paramount is considering shutting down MTV.
At the same time, Warner Bros. Discovery has put its cable TV networks up for sale as part of its auction to sell all or part of its company.
With all of this happening, hereâs a look at some of the most vulnerable networks as of January 2026:
Fanduel Sports Networks:
Fanduel Sports Networks are reportedly running out of money, and their deal to sell to DAZN is reportedly not going to happen. MLB teams have also reportedly broken their contract with FanDuel Sports Network, leaving the future dim for the network.
MTV Channels:
- Consolidation and Decline: Paramount may consolidate smaller MTV channels, like MTV2 and MTV Classic, into MTV and Paramount+ as the younger audience increasingly migrates to online services. The shutdown of MTV News last year further signals the challenges faced by the MTV brand.
- Paramount is facing a need to cut costs right now and that could put many MTV channels on the chopping block.
This all comes as Paramount canceled several awards show they are running and are getting funding to finish up coming movies. Also as reports are out that Paramount is considering shutting down all of its cable networks and making it a digital only brand.
Teen Nick
Ratings Drop: In 2024, Teen Nick saw some of the biggest drops in TV ratings of all cable TV networks. Once again, it saw a ratings drop in 2025. After seeing viewership drop 25% in 2025 vs 2024 the network is now ranked just 135 out…