List of defunct television networks in the United States explained

This is a list of American defunct television networks.

Distant locals/superstations

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
News CorporationSeptember 12, 2006[1] Launched on June 6, 1991.
Branch of Fox for smaller markets without an affiliate.
Warner Bros. Entertainment/Tribune BroadcastingSeptember 17, 2006Launched on September 21, 1998.
Predecessor to The CW Plus.
WWOR EMI ServiceChris-Craft Industries/Advance Entertainment CorporationDecember 31, 1996[2] Launched on January 1, 1990.
National version of New York City's WWOR-TV.

Entertainment

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Discovery Communications/Sony/IMAXAugust 12, 2014[3] Launched on February 13, 2011.
3D television channel.
Alpha Repertory Television ServiceHearst Corporation/ABCFebruary 1, 1984Launched on April 12, 1981.
Merged with The Entertainment Channel to form A&E.
DirecTVMay 22, 2020[4] Launched on November 25, 1999.
Formerly known as Freeview and The 101 Network.
ChillerNBCUniversalDecember 31, 2017[5] Launched on March 1, 2007.
Channel AmericaChannel America Network Inc.1996Launched in 1988.
Colours TV Black Star CommunicationsJuly 13, 2011Launched on 1995
NBCUniversalFebruary 1, 2017Launched as Sleuth on January 1, 2006, replacing Trio.
DuMont Television NetworkDuMont LaboratoriesAugust 6, 1956Launched on June 28, 1942.
The "forgotten network" of early local broadcast television. Fox is sometimes considered its spiritual successor.
El Rey NetworkRobert Rodriguez/FactoryMade VenturesDecember 31, 2020Launched on December 15, 2013.
NBCUniversalJuly 30, 2014Launched on October 31, 2010.
Fox Reality ChannelFox Entertainment GroupMarch 29, 2010Launched on May 24, 2005.
Replaced by Nat Geo Wild.
Funimation ChannelFunimation/Olympusat Inc.December 31, 2015Launched on September 29, 2005.
Replaced by Toku, after Funimation's content deal with Olympusat expired.
Relaunched as Crunchyroll Channel on October 11, 2023.
Ha!ViacomApril 1, 1991[6] Launched on April 1, 1990.
Merged with The Comedy Channel to form CTV: The Comedy Network (renamed Comedy Central that June).
Ion PlusThe E.W. Scripps CompanyFebruary 28, 2021Launched on February 19, 2007.
Formerly known as Ion Life.
The Interactive Channel Source MediaLaunched its first trial in 1996 with Century Cable in Colorado Springs, using CableShare's VirtualModem software. Included headlines and Classified ads from the Colorado Springs Gazette newspaper.
Jones IntercableTwelve-hour channel started in 1994; precursor to ZDTV.
Comcast/Cox Communications/Time Warner CableDecember 1, 2008Launched in September 2003.
Formerly known as INHD.
MET TV - USAMET NetworkNovember 23, 2023Launched on 28 December 1966.
Joel LevitchBasic cable channel broadcasting from New York City.[7] Existed in the 1980s until at least some point in the 2000s.
Network 1 Network Telephone ServicesChannel which allowed viewer participation through 800 and 900 phone numbers.
Mattel/General InstrumentChannel for downloading and playing Intellivision video games through an adapter; existed in the early 1980s.
Disney/ABCDecember 31, 2013[8] Soap opera network specializing in showing current and past soap operas. Launched on January 20, 2000.
Replaced by Disney Junior on many television providers.
The Comedy ChannelHome Box Office, Inc.April 1, 1991Launched on November 15, 1989.
Merged with Ha! to form CTV: The Comedy Network (renamed Comedy Central that June).
The Entertainment ChannelNBCFebruary 1, 1984Merged with the Alpha Repertory Television Service to form A&E.
The Silent Network Sheldon Altfeld/Kathleen Gold/Norm Crosby[9] Specialized channel aimed at deaf and hearing-impaired people; existed in the 1980s.[10]
The WBWarner Bros. Entertainment/Tribune BroadcastingSeptember 18, 2006Launched on January 11, 1995.
Merged with UPN to form The CW.
This TVAllen Media GroupMay 31, 2024Launched on November 1, 2008.
NBCUniversalJanuary 1, 2006Launched on June 1, 1994.
Replaced by Sleuth.
CBS CorporationSeptember 18, 2006Launched on January 16, 1995.
Merged with The WB to form The CW.
Varsity Media Group, Inc.January 15, 2009Launched in 1999.
High school student-produced programming.

Family

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Girlz Channel
Boyz Channel
Fox Family WorldwideAugust 18, 2000Cable offshoots of the Fox Family Channel that aired programming aimed towards both demographics.
Launched in November 1999, and were closed following slow distribution and low subscriber numbers of at least 100,000 each, and FFW's focus to restructuring the main network.[11] [12]
JUCE TVTrinity Broadcasting NetworkJanuary 26, 2020Launched on February 18, 2002.
Formerly JCTV; replaced by Positiv.
Sky AngelJanuary 31, 2019Launched on January 4, 1999.
Allen Media GroupJanuary 15, 2021Launched on December 22, 2016.
Replaced by TheGrio.
Viacom, MTV NetworksDecember 31, 2007Launched on March 1, 1999.
Replaced by The N, though continued to exist on Dish Network until April 23, 2009, when it was replaced by Cartoon Network's Pacific feed.
Luken CommunicationsMarch 31, 2016 Launched on August 1, 2011.
Digital subchannel broadcast network airing programs from the Classic Media library.
QuboThe E.W. Scripps CompanyFebruary 28, 2021Launched on September 9, 2006, as a programming block and on January 8, 2007, as a television channel.
Toon DisneyThe Walt Disney CompanyFebruary 13, 2009 Launched on April 18, 1998.
Rebranded as Disney XD.

LGBT

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Gay Entertainment Television Gay Entertainment Television Inc.Founded in 1992.
Triangle MultimediaFebruary 2006Launched in August 2005.

Lifestyle

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Arts & Antiques Network CYMA ProductionsLaunched first quarter 1996.[13]
Discovery Health ChannelDiscovery CommunicationsJanuary 1, 2011Launched on July 1, 1998.
Replaced by Oprah Winfrey Network; merged with FitTV to create Discovery Fit & Health on February 1, 2011.
Esquire NetworkNBCUniversal, Hearst CommunicationsJune 28, 2017Launched on October 1, 1998.
Formerly known as Style Network.
Fashion and Design Television Anthony GuccioneLaunched in 1994.[14]
G4 Media (original)
Comcast Spectacor (relaunch)
December 31, 2014 (original)
November 18, 2022 (relaunch)
Launched on April 24, 2002.
Relaunched on November 16, 2021.
Halogen TVThe Inspiration NetworksAugust 1, 2013Launched on October 24, 2009.
Merged with the Documentary Channel into Pivot.
Lime TVGaia, Inc.February 25, 2007Formerly known as Wisdom Television.
Retirement Living TVRetirement Living TV, LLCDecember 31, 2017Launched on September 5, 2006.
Replaced by Newsy.
Vulcan Inc.May 28, 2004Launched on May 11, 1998, as ZDTV.
Merged with G4.
Wedding CentralRainbow MediaJuly 1, 2011Launched on August 18, 2009.
Spinoff channel of We TV.

Music

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Americana Television Network Americana Television Network Inc.c. 1994Country, blues, bluegrass, jazz and gospel music videos. Founded by Stanley Hitchcock in 1992; sold to TCI after 2 years, which shut it down.[15]
The BoxJanuary 1, 2001Launched in 1985.
Formerly known as the Video Jukebox Network; replaced by MTV2.
Cable Music ChannelTurner BroadcastingNovember 30, 1984Started in 1984 by Ted Turner in an attempt to compete with MTV; unlike that channel, it had no VJs. It was short lived.
Classic Music Channel Classical Broadcasting Company
The Gospel Network
Hit Video USA 1980s video channel based out of Texas, aired on some broadcast channels during overnight periods.
International Music FeedUniversal Music GroupMarch 31, 2008 Launched on January 20, 2005.
Aired music videos from various artists from around the world; purchased and shut down by Hubbard Broadcasting in 2008 to expand distribution for Ovation TV.
m Channel Aired syndicated music videos, TV shows, movies and news. Was folded under decision of the owner/creator of the network.
MOR Music TVAugust 31, 1997Launched on September 1, 1992.
Channel which aired music videos and performances in conjunction with selling albums.
MTVXMTV NetworksMay 1, 2002Launched on August 1, 1998.
Replaced by MTV Jams (later renamed BET Jams).
NOYZBullfrog MediaJanuary 10, 2008Launched in January 2006.
Ceased operations due to parent company's bankruptcy.
TheCoolTVCool Music Network, LLCAugust 1, 2017Launched in March 2009.
Converted to online-only streaming service after shutdown.
The Tube Music NetworkThe Tube Media Corp.October 1, 2007 Launched in June 2005.
VH1 MegaHitsMTV NetworksJune 30, 2005Launched on May 1, 2002.
Replaced by Logo TV.
Z Music TelevisionGaylord Entertainment Company2000Launched on March 1, 1993.
Contemporary Christian music video channel; shared channel space with BET in some areas.

News and information

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Disney/ABCOctober 28, 2013Launched on July 26, 2004.
Replaced by Fusion.
NBCUniversalJuly 15, 1996Launched on July 4, 1994.
Replaced by MSNBC.
Al Jazeera AmericaAl Jazeera Media NetworkApril 12, 2016Launched on August 20, 2013.
CONUS Communications (Viacom/Hubbard Broadcasting)September 30, 2002Launched on January 1, 1989.
Aired on USSB and later DirecTV; its programming was carried by many over-the-air television stations during the late night hours.
Performance One Media, LLCOriginally National Empowerment Television and eventually became The Renaissance Network. Relaunched as a streaming network named Real America's Voice in 2018.
CBS TelenoticiasCBSSeptember 2000Rebranded from Telenoticias on January 1, 1997.
Formerly known as Telenoticias; replaced by Telemundo Internacional.
Defense Media Activity (United States Department of Defense)April 17, 2015Launched on May 17, 2004.
Formerly known as Pentagon Channel.
Turner Broadcasting System (Time Warner)December 15, 2004Launched on December 29, 1995.
A few cable systems switched the channel space to CNN International after discontinuation.
Current TVAl Gore/Joel HyattAugust 20, 2013Launched on August 1, 2005.
Replaced by Al Jazeera America.
Documentary ChannelParticipant MediaAugust 1, 2013Launched on January 26, 2006.
Merged with Halogen TV into Pivot.
FusionFusion Media Group (Univision Communications)December 31, 2021Launched on October 28, 2013.
Replaced ABC News Now.
Link TVPublic Media Group of Southern CaliforniaNovember 1, 2023Launched on December 15, 1999.
NBC Weather PlusNBCDecember 31, 2008[16] Launched on November 15, 2004.
Distributed via the digital subchannels of NBC affiliates and digital cable. Ceased operations after NBC's purchase of an interest in The Weather Channel.
NewsTalk Television Multimedia, Inc.1995Existed from 1994 to 1995; formerly known as the Talk Channel.
Newsworld InternationalCanadian Broadcasting Corporation/USA BroadcastingJuly 31, 2005Launched on June 1, 1994.
Replaced by Current TV.
RT America(ANO) TV-NovostiMarch 3, 2022Launched in February 2010.
United States cut in channel of RT; shut down as a result of sanctions on Russia over their invasion of Ukraine.
Satellite News ChannelABC/Group WOctober 27, 1983Launched on June 21, 1982.
Eventually replaced by CNN Headline News.
Tempo Television Tempo EnterprisesApril 17, 1989Formerly Satellite Program Network; replaced by CNBC.

Regional news

Name Location OwnerClosure dateNotes
The California ChannelSacramento, CaliforniaOctober 15, 2019[17] Launched on February 4, 1991.
Nexstar Media GroupDecember 31, 2019[18] Launched on January 1, 1993.
Originally owned by Tribune Broadcasting before that company was acquired by Nexstar in 2019.
Norfolk, VirginiaBelo CorporationDecember 31, 2010[19] Launched on February 24, 1997.
Also called LNC5
FiOS1
New York Metropolitan AreaVerizon CommunicationsNovember 13, 2019[20] Launched on June 22, 2009, for Long Island and New Jersey and on May 28, 2014, for the Lower Hudson Valley.
News was produced by RNN.
Tucson, ArizonaCox Communications/KVOA Communications, Inc.March 31, 2010[21] Launched on September 27, 1953.
Northwest Cable NewsPacific NorthwestTegnaJanuary 6, 2017[22] Launched on December 18, 1995.
Used news resources from co-owned Tegna outlets KING-TV, KREM, KGW and KTVB.
TexasGannett CompanyMay 1, 2015Launched on January 1, 1999.

Pay-per-view

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
BET Action BET (later TVN Entertainment)Di-function channel, originally known as Action Pay-Per-View.
Adam & Eve Channel Adam & Eve Communications Inc.Adult pay-per-view and home shopping
AdultVision Playboy EnterprisesAdult pay-per-view
American Exxxtasy Home Dish Satellite Network Inc.Adult pay-per-view
Cable Video StoreGeneral Instrument (original), Graff Pay-Per-View (second)May 1997Launched in 1985.
Guest Cinema Adult pay-per-view
INHD2Comcast/Cox Communications/Time Warner CableJanuary 1, 2007Former companion network to INHD.
People's Choice Pay-per-view
Request TVLiberty Media and 20th Century FoxJune 30, 1998[23] Launched in November 1985.
Also operated a Spanish-language pay-per-view channel, Request En Español.
Rendezvous Adult pay-per-view
Spectradyne Adult pay-per-view in major hotel chains
StarDust Theatre Home Dish Satellite Network Inc.
Tuxxedo NetworkAdult pay-per-view

Movies

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
The B-Movie Channel
Cable Theater Existed from late 1970s–early 1980s.
Encore PlusLiberty StarzJanuary 1, 1997[24] Replaced by Plex: Encore 1 (eventually changed to MoviePlex).
HBODecember 31, 1988[25] Launched on April 1, 1986.
1980s premium channel from HBO.
HBOJanuary 31, 1981Launched on April 1, 1979.
1970s premium channel from HBO.
INTRO Television Liberty StarzJanuary 1, 1997Formerly known as TV! Network; replaced by Plex: Encore 1 (eventually changed to MoviePlex).
January 31, 1987[26] Launched on September 1, 1978.
Premium movies
Metro-Goldwyn-MayerOctober 31, 2022[27] Launched on October 10, 2007.
Movie Mania October 2006Formerly B-Mania!, B-Movie channel.
MovieVision Premium movies
National Subscription TelevisionJune 30, 1985Also had sports and events.
Time, Inc.1986Launched in 1980.
PRISMSpectacorOctober 1, 1997Launched on September 1, 1976.
24-hour premium cable television channel intended for cable customers in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania metropolitan area. Channel infrastructure is still used for NBC Sports Philadelphia.
Starion EntertainmentMarch 31, 1989Launched on July 23, 1978.
ViacomCBS Domestic Media NetworksJuly 15, 2020Launched in September 1999.
Replaced by SHO×BET.
United CableOctober 6, 1985[28] Launched on September 29, 1981.
Times MirrorFebruary 1, 1984Launched on May 28, 1981.
Premium movies
Satellite Television & Associated ResourcesFebruary 12, 1983Launched in 1981.
Formerly known as BEST and StarCase; replaced by Preview
Star TV 1984San Francisco over-the-air channel like ONTV via KTSF-TV. Named Super Time during the late 1970s and Star TV in the early 1980s.
Subscription TV of Greater Washington, Inc.March 31, 1986 Launched on November 1, 1981.
Z ChannelAmerican SpectacorJune 29, 1989Launched in 1974.
Wometco Home TheaterWometco Enterprises1986Subscription service operating offering movies, live sports and entertainment specials through over-the-air broadcast affiliates including flagship station WTVG/WWHT licensed to Newark, New Jersey from 1977 to 1986.

Public-interest/educational

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Knowledge TVJones International2000Launched on November 15, 1987.
Closed several months after being sold to Discovery Communications.
MHz WorldviewMHz NetworksMarch 1, 2020Launched on October 19, 2005.
National Educational TelevisionFord Foundation/Corporation for Public BroadcastingOctober 4, 1970Launched on May 16, 1954.
Predecessor to PBS.
PBSJanuary 9, 2006 Launched on January 15, 2000.
Service ended in January 2006; most stations replaced service with American Public Television's Create network.
ResearchChannelUniversity of WashingtonAugust 31, 2010Launched in November 1996.
WNED-TVLaunched in 2001.
Ceased in 2011.
UniversityHouseNorthern Arizona UniversityTelecourses from Northern Arizona University; was carried on Dish Network's "Public Interest" tier.

Religion

Name OwnerClosure date Notes
Angel One Sky AngelJanuary 31, 2019
Angel Two
Bridges TVMarch 15, 2012Launched on November 15, 2004.
Muslim television network.
i-Life TVThe Inspiration NetworksOctober 24, 2009Replaced by Halogen TV.
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker1989Launched in 1974.
Collapsed in the wake of a sex and embezzlement scandal that resulted in Jim Bakker being sentenced to prison. Relaunched as PTL Television Network in 2015.
The Christian Network, Inc.2013Launched in 1992.
Aired on the digital subchannels of Ion Media Networks-owned stations until 2010.

Shopping

Name OwnerClosure date Notes
America's StoreIAC/InterActiveCorpApril 3, 2007Launched in 1988.
Advertising Television Web Broadcasting Systems Inc.
BET-Home Shopping Network BET Holdings, Inc. / Home Shopping Network
Black Shopping Network
Cable Value Network Tele-Communications Inc.1989Merged with QVC.
Consumer Resource Network Seventh Medium
Cupid Network Television Capital DistributionAdult home shopping
Global Shopping Network
Q2 QVC1996Short-lived spinoff of QVC. Not to be confused with QVC2, another QVC spinoff which was launched in 2013 as QVC Plus and still exists today.
Resort & Residence TV March 28, 2011Aired on DirecTV and Dish Network.
Shop at Home NetworkJewelry TelevisionMarch 8, 2008Launched in 1987.
Shop Television Network J. C. Penney and Shop Television Network, Ltd.1991Was also known as JCPenney Television Shopping Channel.
TV Car Showroom Hachette Filipacchi Magazines
ViaTV Network RSTV Inc.

Sports

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
CNN/Sports IllustratedTurner Broadcasting System (Time Warner)May 15, 2002[29] Launched on December 12, 1996.
ESPN Inc.September 30, 2013[30] Launched on June 11, 2010.
3D television channel.
ESPN College ExtraAugust 15, 2023[31] Launched on September 5, 2015.
Replaced ESPN Full Court and ESPN GamePlan.
ESPN Goal Line & Bases LoadedJune 30, 2020[32] Launched on September 4, 2010.
ESPN Full CourtAugust 28, 2015Launched on November 1, 2007.
Replaced by ESPN College Extra.
ESPN GamePlanLaunched on September 5, 1992.
Replaced by ESPN College Extra.
The Football NetworkThe Football Network, Inc.December 8, 2003Existed briefly in 2003.
Fox Soccer21st Century FoxSeptember 2, 2013[33] Launched on November 1, 1997.
Formerly known as Fox Sports World; replaced by FXX.
Fuel TV21st Century FoxAugust 17, 2013Launched on July 1, 2003.
Men's Outdoor and Recreation
NASCAR / DirecTV2013Launched in 2007.
Aired on DirecTV.
NBCSNNBC Sports GroupDecember 31, 2021Launched on July 31, 1995.
Formerly known as Outdoor Life Network and Versus.
Olympic ChannelNBC Olympics, United States Olympic Committee and NBC Sports GroupSeptember 30, 2022Launched on July 31, 2003.
Formerly Bravo HD+ and Universal HD.
Stadium College SportsDiamond Sports GroupDecember 31, 2023Launched in 2001.
Formerly known as Fox College Sports.
Speed21st Century FoxAugust 17, 2013Launched on December 31, 1995.
Formerly known as Speedvision; replaced by Fox Sports 1.
Mizlou CommunicationsDecember 17, 1990Existed from February–December 1990.
Trax Networks Development Corporation
Universal SportsInterMedia Partners and NBCUniversalNovember 16, 2015[34] Launched in 2006.
Formerly World Championship Sports Network; programming moved to Universal HD (later Olympic Channel).
Water Channel MCE Television Networks Inc.2009Launched on September 21, 2006.
Web Sports Net Web Broadcasting Systems Inc.Text-based sports news service.
NFL Sunday TicketNational Football League1994Exclusive to DirecTV; 14+ Multiplex channels
NFL Sunday Ticket Fantasy Zone2005Exclusive to DirecTV
NFL Sunday Ticket Multiview FanExclusive to DirecTV; 2 Multiplex channels
NFL Sunday Ticket RedZoneExclusive to DirecTV

Regional sports

NameLocationOwnerClosure dateNotes
Bally Sports ArizonaArizonaDiamond Sports GroupOctober 21, 2023Launched on September 7, 1996.
Formerly known as Fox Sports Arizona.
Comcast/Charter Sports SoutheastSouthern United StatesNBCUniversal and Charter CommunicationsJune 1, 2014Launched on September 3, 1999.
Comcast Entertainment TelevisionColorado/UtahNBCUniversalJune 2018Launched on September 1, 2004.
Comcast NetworkEast CoastOctober 2, 2017[35] Launched on December 1, 1996.
Replaced by NBC Sports Philadelphia+ and NBC Sports Washington+.
Empire Sports NetworkUpstate New YorkAdelphia CableMarch 7, 2005Launched on December 31, 1990.
FSN ChicagoChicago, IllinoisNews Corporation/CablevisionJune 23, 2006Launched in 1998.Replaced by Comcast SportsNet Chicago (now NBC Sports Chicago).
Fox Sports HoustonHouston, TexasOctober 5, 2012Launched in 2009.Replaced by Comcast SportsNet Houston (now Space City Home Network).
Fox Sports CarolinasNorth/South CarolinaMarch 31, 2021[36] Launched on October 31, 2008.
Fox Sports TennesseeTennesseeLaunched on October 31, 2008.
MountainWest Sports NetworkWestern United StatesMountain West Conference (MWC), CBS Corporation, ComcastMay 31, 2012[37] Launched on September 1, 2006.
Aired Mountain West Conference sports.
NBC Sports NorthwestPacific NorthwestNBC Sports GroupSeptember 30, 2021[38] Launched on November 1, 2007.
Formerly known as Comcast SportsNet Northwest.
Prime SportsLiberty MediaNovember 1, 1996[39] Launched on October 19, 1985.
Regional sports network; replaced by Fox Sports Net.
Spectrum Sports (New York)Upstate New YorkCharter CommunicationsOctober 5, 2017[40] Launched in 2003.
Spectrum Sports (Carolinas)North/South CarolinaJune 2017Launched in August 2014.
Spectrum Sports (Florida)FloridaDecember 16, 2017Launched in 2004.
Spectrum Sports (Ohio)OhioJanuary 2019Launched in September 1998.
Spectrum Sports (Wisconsin)WisconsinDecember 31, 2018[41] Launched in February 2007.
Spectrum Sports (Texas)TexasJune 2017Launched in 2010.
Sports TimeMidwestern United StatesAnheuser-BuschMarch 31, 1985[42] Launched on April 2, 1984.
St. Louis and Midwest cable sports station.
SportsChannelCablevision/NBCJanuary 1998Launched in 1979.
Regional sports network; merged with Fox Sports Net.
SportsNet Rocky MountainRocky MountainsWarner Bros. DiscoveryOctober 21, 2023Launched on November 15, 1988.
Formerly known as AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain.
Turner SouthSoutheastern United StatesTurner Broadcasting System (Time Warner)October 13, 2006Launched on October 1, 1999.
Purchased by Fox Cable Networks and relaunched as SportSouth.
University of North Dakota Sports NetworkNorth Dakota/Minnesota/South DakotaUniversity of North Dakota/WDAZ-TV/Midcontinent CommunicationsMarch 2012Launched in 2002.
Formerly known as Fighting Sioux Sports Network (FSSN).
Victory Sports OneMinneapolis-Saint Paul, MinnesotaCarl PohladMay 8, 2004Launched on October 31, 2003.
Aired Minnesota Twins baseball games.

Spanish

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
Innovate Corp.December 31, 2022[43] Launched on July 28, 2001.
Azteca name and branding was licensed from TV Azteca and Grupo Salinas.
The Inspiration NetworksDecember 31, 2014Launched in 1978.
La Familia NetworkOctober 4, 2015Launched in 1994.
Was available on Time Warner Cable.
RCN TelevisiónNovember 30, 2016[44] Launched on February 25, 2004.
Formerly known as MundoFox as a joint venture with Fox International Channels; rebranded as MundoMax in 2015.
NuvoTVFuse MediaSeptember 30, 2015Launched on August 13, 2012.
Formerly Sí TV; merged with Fuse, with its channel space being replaced by FM.

Ethnic

African-American

Name OwnerClosure dateNotes
April 30, 2007Launched in 1999.
Formerly MBC Network; subscriber base sold to Gospel Music Channel after shutdown.
Caribbean Satellite Network
New Urban Entertainment Television (NUE-TV) Space Station TeleVisionMay 2001/October 2002
The MBC Movie Network Minority Broadcasting Corp.
World African Network

Asian

Name OwnerClosure date Notes
ComcastApril 9, 2008Launched in 1990.
Formerly International Channel; first nationwide television cable channel dedicated to Asian Americans.
Viacom Media NetworksApril 30, 2007 Launched on December 6, 2005.
An MTV World network dedicated to Chinese-American audiences.
Launched in July 2005.
An MTV World network dedicated to South Asian-American audiences.
Launched on June 27, 2006.
An MTV World network dedicated to Korean-American audiences.

German

Name Owner Closure date Notes
ChannelD 2002 First German private television satellite channel launched in 2001.
Dolphin-TV Dolphin-TV German Television Inc. 2007 German private television satellite channel launched in 2006.
GermanTV Deutsche Welle TV, ARD & ZDF (German Public Broadcasters) 2005 Satellite channel launched in 2001.

High-definition

Name Owner Closure date Notes
Rainbow Media (Cablevision) January 20, 2009 Launched on July 17, 2003.
Suite of 15 high-definition networks.

Network re-brands

NameOwnerNotes
America's Collectibles NetworkMultimedia Commerce Group Inc.Rebranded as Jewelry Television by October 15, 1993.
Beauty iQQurate Retail GroupRebranded as QVC3 on April 1, 2019.
BET JazzBET NetworksRenamed as BET J, Centric, and now BET Her.
The Biography ChannelA&E NetworksRenamed Bio in July 2007 and then rebranded to FYI on July 7, 2014.
Cable Health ClubDiscovery Inc.Rebranded America's Health Network in 1996, The Health Network in 1999, switched to FitTV in 2004, then Discovery Fit & Health on February 1, 2011.
C-3ViacomCBS Domestic Media NetworksRebranded on April 1, 1979, to Nickelodeon.
CBN Satellite ServiceWalt Disney TelevisionLaunched on April 29, 1977.
Relaunched to The Family Channel in 1990, Fox Family Channel in 1998, ABC Family on November 10, 2001, then Freeform on January 12, 2016.
The Church ChannelTrinity Broadcasting NetworkRenamed Hillsong Channel on June 1, 2016, and then TBN Inspire on January 1, 2022.
CNN 2WarnerMedia News & Sports (WarnerMedia)Rebranded as CNN Headline News in January 1983, and then simply HLN on June 17, 2007.
Court TVLaunched on July 1, 1991.
Rebranded as TruTV on January 1, 2008. Court TV was relaunched as a digital broadcast network on May 8, 2019.
Discovery Civilization NetworkDiscovery Inc.Became Discovery Civilization Channel first, next Discovery Times, and now Investigation Discovery.
Discovery Health ChannelLaunched on July 1, 1998.
Merged with FitTV to create Discovery Fit & Health on February 1, 2011, and got replaced with OWN on January 1, 2011.
Discovery HD TheaterRenamed HD Theater on September 22, 2007, rebranded Velocity on October 4, 2011, and then Motor Trend on November 23, 2018.
Discovery KidsRelaunched The Hub on October 10, 2010, renamed Hub Network in 2013, and then rebranded Discovery Family on October 13, 2014.
Discovery Travel and LivingRebranded Discovery Home and Leisure in 1998, then Discovery Home in 2004, Planet Green in 2008, and then Destination America on May 26, 2012.
Discovery WingsRebranded Military Channel on January 10, 2005, then American Heroes Channel on March 3, 2014.
DIY NetworkRelaunched Magnolia Network on January 5, 2022.
EncoreStarz Inc.Renamed Starz Encore on April 5, 2016.
Fine Living NetworkDiscovery Inc.Launched on August 21, 2002.
Shut down on May 31, 2010, replaced by Cooking Channel.
Fox Movie ChannelWalt Disney TelevisionRebranded FXM on January 1, 2012.
Fox Reality ChannelLaunched on May 24, 2005.
Shut down on March 29, 2010, replaced by Nat Geo Wild.
Fox Sports en EspañolFox CorporationRelaunched Fox Deportes on October 1, 2010.
Funimation ChannelFunimation/Olympusat Inc.Replaced by TOKU on December 31, 2015. Relaunched as Crunchyroll Channel on October 11, 2023.
Gospel Music ChannelInterMedia PartnersRenamed GMC TV in fall 2010 and then Up on June 1, 2013.
Hallmark Movie ChannelCrown Media Holdings (Hallmark Cards)Rebranded as Hallmark Movies & Mysteries on September 29, 2014, and now, Hallmark Mystery.
HDNetHDNet Inc.Rebranded as AXS TV on July 2, 2012.
HRTVBetfairRebranded as TVG2 on October 28, 2015, and then FanDuel Racing in September 2022.
The Inspiration NetworkThe Inspiration NetworksRenamed INSP in October 2010.
The Jewelry ChannelVaibhav GlobalRebranded Liquidation Channel in 2009 and then renamed to Shop LC on January 9, 2017.
MovietimeNBCUniversalRebranded as E! in 1991.
MHDViacomCBS Domestic Media NetworksRebranded Palladia on September 1, 2008, and then renamed MTV Live on February 1, 2016.
MTV HitsRenamed NickMusic on September 9, 2016.
MuchMusic USACHUM Limited and Rainbow MediaRebranded Fuse on May 19, 2003.
Mun2NBCUniversalRebranded NBC Universo on February 1, 2015.
National College Sports NetworkViacomCBSRebranded to CSTV in 2003, and then CBS College Sports Network in 2008, and then finally CBS Sports Network on April 4, 2011.
The 90's ChannelPublic Communicators, Inc.Relaunched Free Speech TV in 1995
NogginViacomCBS Domestic Media NetworksRebranded the Nick Jr. Channel on September 28, 2009.
Odyssey NetworkCrown Media Holdings (Hallmark Cards)Originally Launched as two separate networks: American Christian Television System (a Christian teaching channel) and Vision Interfaith Satellite Network (interfaith programming). VISN and ACTS merged and became Faith & Values Channel. The network was renamed again in 1996 as Odyssey. Hallmark Entertainment and The Jim Henson Company purchased the network, which was relaunched as Hallmark Channel in 2001.
PAX TVIon MediaRelaunched i: Independent Television on July 1, 2005, and then Ion Television on January 29, 2007.
PBS Kids SproutPBS/NBCUniversalLaunched on September 26, 2005.
NBCUniversal bought full ownership of the network and renamed to Sprout in 2013, and then Universal Kids on September 9, 2017.
Prevue ChannelLionsgateLaunched in 1981 as the Electronic Program Guide, then became the Prevue Guide, then modified slightly into Prevue Channel. Purchased by TV Guide in 1999 and renamed TV Guide Channel and then became the TV Guide Network in 2007, and then shortened to TVGN in 2013, as of January 14, 2015, it is now Pop.
Sci-Fi ChannelNBCUniversalRenamed Syfy on July 7, 2009.
Smile of a ChildTrinity Broadcasting NetworkRenamed Smile on January 1, 2017.
SonBeam ChannelThree Angels Broadcasting NetworkRenamed 3ABN Kids Network.
SpeedVisionSPEED Channel Inc. (Fox Corporation)Renamed Speed, replaced by Fox Sports 1 on August 17, 2013.
Star ChannelShowtime Networks (ViacomCBS)Relaunched to become The Movie Channel in 1979.
Sundance ChannelAMC NetworksRenamed SundanceTV on February 1, 2014.
TelefuturaUnivision CommunicationsRebranded UniMás on January 7, 2013.
The Nashville NetworkViacomCBS Domestic Media NetworksRenamed The National Network on September 25, 2000. Was purchased by Viacom and relaunched Spike on August 11, 2003, then rebranded Paramount Network on January 18, 2018.
Toon DisneyDisneyLaunched on April 18, 1998.
Replaced by Disney XD on February 13, 2009.
ValueVisionValueVision MediaRelaunched in 2001 to ShopNBC, then ShopHQ in 2013, then Evine in 2015, then back to ShopHQ on August 21, 2019.
VH1 SmoothViacomCBS Domestic Media NetworksRenamed VH1 Classic in 1999 and then became MTV Classic on August 1, 2016.
VH1 CountryRenamed CMT Pure Country on May 27, 2006, and then CMT Music on January 4, 2016.
VH1 SoulRenamed BET Soul on December 28, 2015.
Viewer's ChoiceComcast/Cox Communications/Charter CommunicationsRebranded as iN DEMAND on January 1, 2000.
WealthTVHerring BroadcastingRebranded AWE on October 1, 2013.
ZDTVZiff DavisBought by Vulcan Inc. and rebranded as TechTV on September 18, 2000.

Notes and References

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  2. Web site: 2012-11-05 . N.Y.'s WWOR loses super status. (satellite distributor discontinues service contract with television station). 2023-02-11 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105151525/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-19009914.html . 2012-11-05 .
  3. Web site: Discovery, Sony, IMAX quietly shutter 3D channel 3net . 2023-02-11.
  4. Web site: Daniel Frankel . 2020-04-20 . AT&T to Shutter Audience Network on May 22 . 2023-02-11 . NextTV . en.
  5. Web site: O'Connell . Mikey . 2017-11-16 . NBCUniversal Turning Lights Off on Chiller Network . 2023-02-11 . The Hollywood Reporter . en-US.
  6. News: Carter . Bill . 1990-12-19 . 2 Comedy Channels Will Merge . en-US . The New York Times . 2023-02-11 . 0362-4331.
  7. https://books.google.com/books?id=gU3uBwAAQBAJ&dq=National+Jewish+Television+Network&pg=PA382 The Encyclopedia of Television, Cable, and Video
  8. Web site: 2013-11-09 . Disney's SOAPnet channel headed for the drain . 2023-02-11 . Los Angeles Times . en-US.
  9. Web site: Deaf History - Silent Network. thesilentnetwork.tv. 28 October 2022.
  10. Web site: Deaf History - Silent Network - A Deaf Cable Channel. verywell.com. 14 June 2017.
  11. Web site: Bernstein . Paula . 2000-08-15 . Fox Family pulls Girlz, Boyz diginets . 2024-05-31 . Variety . en-US.
  12. Web site: Digi-Net Duo Bites Dust . August 14, 2000 .
  13. "Channel-surfing cable's new nets", Broadcasting & Cable, November 27, 1995, McConville, Jim
  14. https://wwd.com/fashion-news/fashion-features/fad-tv-fashioning-a-network-1156983/ FAD TV: Fashioning a Network
  15. Crawford makes major investment in Americana music. Billboard. 22 Sep 2001.
  16. Web site: NBC Shutting Down Weather Plus - TVWeek - News . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20081119044350/http://www.tvweek.com/news/2008/10/nbc_shutting_down_weather_plus.php . 2008-11-19 . 2015-06-01.
  17. Web site: 2019-09-02 . California's version of C-SPAN is shutting down. It's a loss for the Capitol — and the public . 2023-02-11 . Los Angeles Times . en-US.
  18. Web site: 2019-12-31 . CLTV says goodbye after 27 years . 2023-02-11 . WGN-TV . en-US.
  19. Web site: 2019-08-30 . Statement about LNC5 13newsnow.com . 2023-02-11 . https://web.archive.org/web/20190830052633/https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/local/statement-about-lnc5/291-375109923 . 2019-08-30 .
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  23. Web site: 2012-11-05 . PAY-PER-VIEW SERVICE CLOSING TCI DECIDES NOT TO EXTEND CONTRACT OF REQUEST TELEVISION.(Business) - Rocky Mountain News (Denver, CO) . 2023-02-11 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105165818/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-67607749.html . 2012-11-05 .
  24. Web site: 2012-11-05 . Plex channel arrives without warning - Chicago Sun-Times . 2023-02-11 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105151447/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-4374660.html . 2012-11-05 .
  25. Web site: Broadcasting Magazine . https://web.archive.org/web/20200701025632/https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Magazines/Broadcasting-IDX/1988-Broadcasting/1988-07-18-Broadcasting-Page-0061.pdf . 2023-02-11 . 18 July 1988 . 1 July 2020 . dead . worldradiohistory.com.
  26. News: Broadcasting Magazine. 6 March 2011. October 27, 1986. https://web.archive.org/web/20120406072451/http://www.davidgleason.com/Archive%20BC/BC%201986/BC-1986-10-27.pdf. 6 April 2012. dead. - dead link
  27. Web site: Keys . Matthew . 2022-10-25 . Amazon to shut down MGM HD cable movie channel by end of month . 2023-02-11 . The Desk . en-us.
  28. News: Spectrum to abandon pay-TV service. Minneapolis Star and Tribune. August 15, 1985. 1A, 17A. Colin. Covert. February 11, 2013.
  29. Web site: 2014-09-21 . CNN/Sports Illustrated Channel to Go Off Air in May. - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution . 2023-02-11 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140921193007/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-122954265.html . 2014-09-21 .
  30. Web site: ESPN 3D to Go Dark On September 30. TVPredictions.com. 11 February 2023. https://web.archive.org/web/20160304032830/http://www.tvpredictions.com/3d090913.htm. 4 March 2016. dead.
  31. Web site: Finn . John . 2023-08-04 . ESPN College Extra To Shut Down Later This Month . 2023-08-21 . Streaming Better . en-US.
  32. Web site: Re: Notice of Discontinuation of ESPN Goal Line and ESPN Bases Loaded. 13 March 2020. Letter from ESPN to the National Cable Television Cooperative. 11 February 2023.
  33. Web site: Andreeva . Nellie . 2013-03-28 . FX Officially Unveils FXX Channel To Launch In September, New Branding Campaign . 2023-02-11 . Deadline . en-US.
  34. Web site: Hipes . Patrick . 2015-10-22 . Universal Sports Network Being Shuttered By NBCU . 2023-02-11 . Deadline . en-US.
  35. Web site: 2017-08-23 . NBC SPORTS REGIONAL NETWORKS TO ALIGN CSN & TCN PROPERTIES UNDER 'NBC SPORTS' BRAND . 2023-02-11 . NBC Sports Pressbox . en.
  36. Web site: Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc . Bally's Corporation . Sinclair Broadcast Group And Bally's Corporation Unveil Official Bally Sports Logo And Corresponding Regional Monikers . 2023-02-11 . www.prnewswire.com . en.
  37. Web site: 2012-05-27 . Dusty Saunders: The Mtn. network signs off for good Thursday night . 2023-02-11 . The Denver Post . en-US.
  38. Web site: 2021-06-09 . Blazers agree to broadcast deal with Root Sports, end partnership with NBC Sports Northwest . 2023-02-11 . kgw.com . en-US.
  39. Web site: FOX SPORTS NET ANNOUNCES DEBUT FOR NOVEMBER 1 . 2023-02-11 . www.sportsbusinessjournal.com . en.
  40. Web site: Spectrum Sports channel ceases operations. Kevin. Oklobzija. 5 October 2017. rbj.net.
  41. Web site: Foran . Chris . Charter pulls the plug on Spectrum Sports Wisconsin channel . 2023-02-11 . Journal Sentinel . en-US.
  42. News: Eric. Mink. St. Louis Post-Dispatch. March 1, 1985. 1C. November 10, 2019. Sports Time Cable To End Operations March 31.
  43. Web site: 2022-10-21 . Azteca America will cease operations after 22 years in the US Hispanic . 2023-02-11 . PRODU.COM . es.
  44. Web site: Villafañe . Veronica . 2016-10-06 . MundoMax to go off air at local stations; lays off staff . 2023-02-11 . Media Moves . en-US.