Current Status of Catfish by Network and Season
As of the most recent public information, MTV has not ordered new seasons of the U.S. version of Catfish since ending the long-running series in 2023, and there are no confirmed plans for a traditional revival or reboot on MTV. The original MTV run concluded with season 8 in 2023. Separately, the related series Catfish: Trolls is also inactive, and no new seasons have been announced for either format on MTV in 2024 or 2025.
However, formats inspired by the show, including local-language adaptations and streaming experiments, continue to appear on other platforms. This article explains the difference between show cancellations, format pauses, and potential revivals, and what signals to watch for if Catfish returns in any form.
What “Coming Back” Typically Means for TV Formats
Revival vs Reboot vs Relocation
When asking whether a show is coming back, it helps to distinguish between revival, reboot, and format relocation:
- Revival: The original show returns with some or all of the original production team, often on the same or a related network.
- Reboot: A fresh version that may recast hosts, update the format, or move to a new network or streaming service.
- Relocation/Local Adaptation: The concept is licensed to another country or network, producing distinct local versions rather than a direct continuation.
For Catfish, any return would likely begin as a reboot or localized adaptation rather than a seamless revival of the exact original MTV run.
Documented History of Catfish Seasons and Airing Status
| Season or Iteration | Years Aired | Network / Platform | Status Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catfish (U.S.) | 2012–2023 | MTV | Concluded; no new seasons announced |
| Catfish: Trolls | 2017–2018 | MTV | Ended; no new seasons announced |
| International adaptations | catfish continuing in formats such as UK, Australia, and local-language versions on various networks, status varies by regionOngoing in some regions | Independent of U.S. MTV run |
Why Networks Pause or Cancel Relationship Shows
Shows in the catfish and broader relationship-confrontation genre can be vulnerable to shifts in audience taste, host availability, and brand safety concerns. Networks may choose not to rush a revival if the cultural conversation around catfishing has shifted, if legal or ethical considerations around doxing have tightened, or if production costs outweigh expected returns. When a show ends without a clear renewal, creators may move the concept to digital shorts, podcasts, or localized formats rather than waiting for a network-led reboot.
How to Evaluate Rumors About Catfish Returning
Credible Signals to Watch
- Official press release or announcement from the network or production company.
- Renewal news from reputable entertainment trade outlets citing studio sources.
- Casting notices or location scouting that align with the known production pattern of the show.
Be cautious of unverified social media posts, speculative fan edits, or older news articles presented as current updates. Those are common causes of false catfish returning rumors.
What to Watch For If Catfish Returns
If a new version or reboot emerges, it will likely debut on a streaming platform or be localized for international markets rather than reinstated on MTV in its original form. Indicators to monitor include announcements from MTV parent networks, casting calls for a host or moderator, and partnerships with digital verification firms that were involved in earlier seasons. Industry trade reporting and official show social channels are the best places to confirm any legitimate return.
Key Takeaways on Whether Catfish Is Coming Back
- The original U.S. MTV series ended in 2023 and has not been renewed.
- No official plans for a MTV revival or reboot have been announced as of mid-2024–2025.
- International and localized versions may continue, but they are separate from the U.S. show.
- Any new version would more likely appear as a reboot or on a streaming platform than a direct MTV revival.
- Watch for official announcements from networks or production companies to separate confirmed news from speculation.
Summary
In summary, as of now Catfish is not actively returning on MTV, and there are no confirmed announcements for a revival or reboot. The original run concluded in 2023, and while formats may appear elsewhere, the classic MTV version has ended. Understanding the difference between a revival, reboot, and localized adaptation can help you interpret any future news. For the most reliable updates, rely on official network press releases and trusted entertainment reporting rather than unverified rumors.