The embodiments of the present invention relates to a multimedia broadcast multicast communication method, an apparatus, and a system. The method includes: receiving, by a base station, first indication information at a first time, where the first indication information instructs the base station to suspend transmitting service data in a multimedia broadcast multicast service MBSFN manner; and sending, by the base station, second indication information to user equipment UE according to the first indication information, so that the UE suspends, at a second time according to the second indication information, receiving the service data in the MBSFN manner. The first time is earlier than the second time, and duration between the first time and the second time is less than a multicast control channel MCCH modification period. The user equipment is notified in a more timely manner to suspend transmitting the service data in the MBSFN manner.