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    Back to Hollywood Breakdown

    Hollywood Breakdown

    In a Bid to Gain More Viewers, MTV Goes Back to Its Roots

    Does anyone still want their MTV? The network is hoping that by featuring more music, news and game shows, like in days of yore, they'll be able to boost flagging ratings.

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    By Kim Masters • Apr 21, 2016 • 3m Listen

    In a sad coincidence, MTV found itself playing Prince music videos all day just as they announced their intention to return back to more of an emphasis on the "M" in MTV. The network, which is part of Viacom, has had a drop-off of viewers, especially in the past year. Now, under new president Sean Atkins, they've announced the return of MTV Unplugged, as well as more live music performances and music competition shows. This also comes in the wake of ongoing negotiations between Dish and Viacom, who finally closed a deal, ensuring that Dish viewers will still get to see channels MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central.

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      Kim Masters

      partner/writer at Puck News, host of KCRW's “The Business.”

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      Michael Schneider

      Senior editor at Variety

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      Kaitlin Parker

      Producer, 'The Business' and 'Hollywood Breakdown'

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