The HBO Family channel will be discontinued on August 15, marking the end of a spinoff that debuted in December 1996 as a more family-friendly version of HBO. This closure is part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s broader initiative to streamline its extensive array of ‘multiplex channels,’ which typically come included with HBO or Cinemax subscriptions.
In addition to HBO Family, Warner Bros. Discovery plans to cease operations of the Cinemax multiplex channels, including ThrillerMax, MovieMax, and OuterMax. The news was first reported by Cord Cutters News after Spectrum informed its subscribers that, effective on or after August 15, 2025, programming from these channels would no longer be available. This information has since been confirmed by Variety.
The linear premium channels have faced significant audience declines as viewers increasingly shift towards streaming services. Currently, most of HBO’s original series viewership is migrating to the platform that will soon be rebranded from HBO Max. This decision to eliminate these channels coincides with Warner Bros. Discovery’s recent announcement to restructure the company, which involves divesting its linear basic cable networks into a new spinoff entity, although HBO will remain outside this division.
While many multiplex channels primarily air reruns of films from HBO, HBO Family has showcased original programming throughout its history. In recent years, as HBO phased out its children’s content from its main lineup, all children’s programs and family specials transitioned to HBO Family. Notably, HBO Family did not include R-rated or TV-MA content in its programming.
Despite these cuts, HBO will continue to offer several multiplex channels, such as HBO2, HBO Signature, HBO Comedy, HBO Zone, and HBO Latino.
The Cinemax channels set for closure include ThrillerMax, which specializes in horror and thriller films and launched in 1998; MovieMax, aimed at a younger audience that debuted as WMax in 2001; and OuterMax, focused on sci-fi and fantasy programming, which started in 2001 as well. Cinemax will still provide content through channels including MoreMax, ActionMax, 5 Star Max, and Cinemáx.