In the 1980s and 1990s, MTV was not only the home of music videos, but also a news source for young people around the world. The channel’s news division, MTV News, was known for its edgy and irreverent reporting style, and covered everything from politics to pop culture.
One of the most memorable moments in MTV News history was the breaking news of Kurt Cobain’s death in 1994. The news was first reported by correspondent Tabitha Soren, who broke the story to viewers in real-time as it was still developing. This moment became a defining moment in MTV’s history, as it demonstrated the channel’s ability to report on breaking news and cemented its place as a trusted news source for young people.
MTV News also tackled important social and political issues, such as the AIDS crisis and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The channel’s coverage of the 1992 presidential election, known as “Choose or Lose,” was groundbreaking in its efforts to encourage young people to vote and get involved in politics.
In addition to its news coverage, MTV also used its platform to launch the careers of some of today’s biggest stars. The channel’s music video countdown show, Total Request Live (TRL), was instrumental in launching the careers of artists like Britney Spears, NSYNC, and Eminem.
While MTV News is no longer the go-to news source for young people, the channel’s impact on the media landscape cannot be overstated. Its ability to connect with young people and cover important issues in an engaging and accessible way paved the way for future generations of news media to follow.