Virgin Media customers could be about to lose 30 channels, including MTV, 5 USA, 5 Star, Comedy Central and Paramount, according to a new website launched by channel owners Viacom.
The broadcaster has warned viewers that “30 of your favourite TV channels will no longer be available to you as a cable TV subscriber from midnight on 31st August when our current deal with Virgin Media comes to an end.”
The keepmyviacom.co.uk site also warns that on-demand and catch-up access to shows such as Geordie OGs, Cribs,Teen Mom OG, Love Squad, VMAs, Are You The One?, Ex On The Beach USA, Catfish on MTV, Russell Howard & Mum: Globetrotters, Your Face or Mine, Blockbusters, Impractical Jokers and South Park is also on the line.
Viacom blames the potential removal of the channels on Virgin Media “insisting we accept less money for letting them sell our channels” despite the cable firm “hiking prices once again.”
It adds: “We’re open to talking to Virgin anytime to try and strike a deal and return you to service as usual.”
Viewers are advised: “If you want to complain about the disruption or enquire about a refund, call Virgin Media’s Customer Services team on 0345 454 1111 or go online to make a complaint.”
A Virgin Media spokesperson said: “All of these channels remain on Virgin TV and we continue to have positive and constructive discussions with Viacom.”
Last year a similar row saw Virgin Media customers lose access to UKTV’s channel portfolio for a two-week period before a resolution was reached.