HBO Channels Shutting Down: Cable TV & Streaming Services Notify Customers

HBO, a part of Warner Bros. Discovery, has officially announced the discontinuation of several of its linear channels, including HBO Family, ThrillerMax, MovieMax, and OuterMax, effective on or after August 15, 2025. This move is part of HBO’s strategic shift towards its streaming platform, HBO Max, reflecting the changing landscape of media consumption. Services like Hulu and Sling TV have already started informing subscribers about these upcoming changes, highlighting the ongoing transition from traditional cable to on-demand streaming.

In a recent customer notice, Spectrum confirmed the cessation of HBO Family, ThrillerMax, MovieMax, and OuterMax programming, stating that these channels will no longer be available starting August 15, 2025. Additionally, Sino TV and Sino Prime are also set to shut down on June 30, 2025, further illustrating the trend of linear television offerings contracting.

HBO Family has been a go-to channel for kid-friendly content like Sesame Street and The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo, while ThrillerMax, MovieMax, and OuterMax, part of the Cinemax multiplex, cater to niche audiences with thrilling movies and genre-specific content. Despite their loyal fan bases, these channels have experienced a decline in viewership as more consumers prefer the flexibility of streaming services.

HBO’s decision to focus on HBO Max comes as no surprise, given the platform’s success in attracting over 117 million paid subscribers worldwide as of June 2025. With a vast library of HBO originals, Warner Bros. films, live sports, and exclusive content like All Elite Wrestling, HBO Max offers a comprehensive entertainment experience. Most of the programming from the discontinued channels will still be available on HBO Max, ensuring that subscribers can access their favorite shows and movies even after the channels go off the air.

This shift in HBO’s strategy mirrors the broader trend in the industry, where streaming services have become the preferred choice for consumers. Providers like Hulu, YouTube TV, and Fubo have been informing their users about the upcoming closures of the HBO channels, urging them to make the switch to streaming services for uninterrupted access to content.

As HBO transitions to this new phase, the entertainment industry is paying close attention to see how it will impact the premium entertainment landscape. The move highlights the challenges facing linear television in a time when on-demand viewing is king. Viewers still have some time to enjoy HBO Family, ThrillerMax, MovieMax, and OuterMax until August 15, 2025, but the clock is ticking on these legacy channels. Stay tuned for more news, tips, and reviews by following us on Facebook and Twitter. And if you need cord cutting tech support, don’t hesitate to join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for assistance.