Hundreds of thousands of viewers lose access to MTV channels due to distribution dispute

Hundreds of thousands of Finnish television viewers using Elisa’s cable TV or streaming services can no longer watch MTV’s free channels after the companies failed to renew their distribution agreement, Yle reports.

As of last night, MTV3, Sub, and AVA channels have gone dark for Elisa customers, replaced by an on-screen message stating that “MTV’s channels are not available.” The blackout affects both Elisa’s cable TV subscribers and users of its Elisa Viihde streaming platform.

Elisa has offered a temporary workaround, providing free access to its Elisa Viihde app for one month. The app allows viewers to record and watch MTV’s programs with a slight delay of a few minutes.

The disruption stems from a failed negotiation between MTV Oy and Elisa over a new distribution deal. Neither company has disclosed further details about the terms of the dispute.