Latest News from Media Boy UK HQ on new channels testing 2024

Last updated on December 31st 2024 at 16:15: 

Media Boy UK Blogs updates 2024

When Media Boy UK do some label some changes information appearing on this post:

Media Guardian: Badenoch allies dismiss ‘nonsense’ claims she asked GB News to cut Farage’s airtime

Story from Media Guardian:

Allies of Kemi Badenoch have dismissed as “nonsense” claims that she asked GB News to cut airtime for Nigel Farage.

The Sun: Sky & Virgin customers warned more channel closures 'inevitable' next year

Story from The Sun:

Dozens of channels have disappeared from boxes in the last 12 months - and an expert warns more are likely to follow.

Daily Mail: Cat Deeley's future on This Morning sealed

Story from Daily Mail:

Cat Deeley's future on This Morning has been confirmed just nine months after she made her debut.

Advanced Television: Beyoncé Bowl special coming to Netflix

Story from Advanced Television:

Pop star Beyoncé performed a halftime show during Netflix’s first-ever NFL Christmas Gameday as the Houston Texans hosted the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium live on Netflix.

Advanced Television: Carabao Cup Semi-Finals on ITV

Story from Advanced Television:

The schedule for the Semi-Finals of the Carabao Cup has been confirmed, with the ties to be played across two legs on the weeks commencing January 6th and February 3rd.

Advanced Television: AEW extends ITV deal

Story from Advanced Television:

AEW (All Elite Wrestling) and ITV have announced an extension of their existing UK rights deal.

Media Guardian: TV bosses should dare to flout Ofcom rules, says Grange Hill creator Phil Redmond

Story from Media Guardian:

The creator of some of Britain’s best-loved soaps has said the “courage has gone out of broadcasting” and suggested that television bosses should not be afraid to flout Ofcom rules.

Sky Sports; TGL: Sky to show Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy's team golf league exclusively live on Sky Sports Golf

Story from Sky Sports:

Sky has secured a two-year partnership with TGL presented by SoFi, the new team golf league founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's TMRW Sports.

Daily Mail: Bullseye fans get huge update after demanding a full series

Story from Daily Mail:

Viewers have demanded that a full series of Bullseye is commissioned following Freddie Flintoff's Christmas special.

Media Boy UK Blogs hits over 4M views

Media Boy UK HQ would like to say thanks you to everyone who has view a Media Boy UK Blog over the years - over Christmas a blog pass a 4M mark.

Media Boy UK Best of and Virgin Media UK review of 2024

Media Boy UK Best of and Virgin Media UK review of 2024:

Advanced Television: MPs to examine State of Play across culture, media and sport

Story from Advanced Television:

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee of the UK House of Commons, which scrutinises the spending, policies and administration of the government Department for Culture, Media and Sport, is inviting pitches from across the culture, media and sporting world as part of a new rolling inquiry that will shine a light on previously unheard issues and challenges.

The Sun: The Simpsons leaving Channel 4 after 20 years in shock move

Story from The Sun:

The Simpsons will be leaving Channel 4 after a whopping 20 years with the broadcaster.

Advanced Television: Ofcom to assess BBC radio expansion plans

Story from Advanced Television:

Ofcom has written to the BBC confirming that it will carry out full BBC Competition Assessments (BCAs) of the Corporation’s radio expansion plans.

Deadline: TalkTV Caps Off Tough 2024 By Recording Most Complained About TV Moment

Story from Deadline:

Rupert Murdoch’s TalkTV has capped off a tough 2024 by recording the most complained about TV moment of the past 12 months.

Daily Mail: Sky Sports 'identify top candidate to replace Kelly Cates'

Story from Daily Mail:

Sky Sports have reportedly identified their preferred name to replace Kelly Cates as she prepares to leave the broadcasting giant.

Daily Mail: Exiled Sky Sports host Richard Keys warns Kelly Cates about MOTD

Story from Daily Mail:

Exiled former Sky Sports presenter Richard Keys has warned Kelly Cates over her impending role as the new Match of the Day host.

Advanced Television: BBC, ITV confirm shared deal for World Cup 2026, 2030

Story from Advanced Television:

The BBC and ITV have agreed a deal for live coverage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and FIFA World Cup 2030 across TV, audio and digital platforms.

Hollywood Reporter: ‘Paddington’ Producer Canal+ Shares Fall in London Debut After Vivendi Four-Way Split

Story from Hollywood Reporter:

After French media and telecom giant Vivendi’s split into four companies, the stocks of pay-TV and film company Canal+, advertising powerhouse Havas and publishing firm Louis Hachette Group, which consists of the Vivendi’s 66.53 percent stake in Lagardère and full ownership of Prisma Media, started trading in Europe on Monday.

Advanced Television: Live NIFL Premiership on BBC Sport NI

Story from Advanced Television:

Six Sports Direct NIFL Premiership games being streamed live in January and February 2025 on BBC Sport NI.

Media Guardian: Canal+ listing is ‘vote of confidence’ in UK stock market, says Reeves

Story from Media Guardian:

Canal+, the international pay-TV company and owner of the studio behind the Paddington film franchise, is to make its multibillion-pound stock market debut in London on Monday, providing a much-needed shot in the arm for the capital’s stock exchange.

Daily Mail: Kelly Cates is joining BBC to host MOTD from next season

Story from Daily Mail:

Kelly Cates is to leave Sky Sports to become part of a three-person team of Match of the Day presenters, Mail Sport understands.

Daily Mail: Amy Irons and Laura Maciver to host new BBC news programme after previous show The Nine was axed

Story from Daily Mail:

She has risen to become one of the most recogniseable TV presenters in Scotland and recently landed the much-prized gig of hosting the Hogmanay show made famous by Jackie Bird.

Deadline: King Charles Honors Ted Sarandos, Shonda Rhimes For “Extraordinary Services To Creative Industry In UK”

Story from Deadline:

Netflix boss Ted Sarandos has been awarded one of the UK’s highest honors, receiving a CBE from King Charles.

Deadline: ITV & YouTube Strike Deal For Shows Including ‘Love Island’, ‘Masked Singer’ & ‘I’m A Celebrity’

Story from Deadline:

Hundreds of hours of ITV shows are about to hit YouTube while the UK commercial net has hired a Channel 4 exec to run a dedicated YouTube sales team.

Advanced Television: Ofcom consults on Media Act implementation

Story from Advanced Television:

UK media regulator Ofcom is publishing two consultations as it begins to implement new laws under the Media Act 2024.

Advanced Television: Red Bee, Fabric x Xytech EPG partnership

Story from Advanced Television:

Red Bee Media, the media services provider, and the newly combined entity of Fabric x Xytech, have announced a strategic partnership designed to enrich Fabric x Xytech’s product suite by integrating Red Bee Media’s metadata content and imagery for the US, Canada, UK and Ireland markets.

UK Cable TV Changes: Cruise 1st .tv testing on Virgin Media ahead of launch

Story from UK Cable TV Changes:

UK Cable TV Changes are reporting that Holiday Shopping Channel Cruise 1st .tv is testing on Virgin Media ahead of launch.

Deadline: UK Culture Secretary “Prepared To Take Further Action” If TV Industry Fails To Get Grip On Bad Behavior Following Gregg Wallace Allegations

Story from Deadline:

Lisa Nandy is not mincing her words over the Gregg Wallace allegations and the TV industry’s response.

Deadline: Channel 4 Chair To Step Down Next Year After One Term

Story from Deadline:

Channel 4 Chair Ian Cheshire is to step down at the end of his three-year term next year.

Hollywood Reporter: Comcast, Warner Bros. Discovery Settle Lawsuit Over Refusal to Partner on Harry Potter Series

Story from Hollywood Reporter:

Comcast‘s Sky and Warner Bros. Discovery have settled a lawsuit over alleged breaches to a 2019 deal for exclusive rights to shows.

Media Guardian: GB News broadcasts half of all UK stories about Muslims, analysis shows

Story from Media Guardian:

GB News accounted for half of all news broadcast coverage of Muslims over a two-year period, much of it negative, according to new analysis.

Media Guardian: British TV industry must diversify to survive, Lisa Nandy says

Story from Media Guardian:

Britain’s TV industry will not survive unless it diversifies as viewers will switch to streaming services if shows do not connect with them, Lisa Nandy has warned.

Deadline: Paramount’s Channel 5 Increases Operating Profit In 2023 But Takes Hit On Huge £159.5M Payment To Viacom Interactive Subsidiary

Story from Deadline:

Paramount UK network Channel 5 saw turnover and operating profit rise last year but made an overall loss of £159.5M due to a one-off payment to a Paramount Global subsidiary.

Media Guardian: ITV faces a hard sell to tempt suitors despite Carolyn McCall’s best efforts

Story from Media Guardian:

As Carolyn McCall enters her eighth year as boss of ITV she might be forgiven for wondering if maybe she shouldn’t have turned down a chance to run Marks & Spencer instead.

Cord Busters UK: Apple TV+ Becomes An Amazon UK Prime Video Channel

Story from Cord Busters UK:

Starting today, Apple TV+ is joining Amazon’s Prime Video Channels in the UK, marking a big shift for Apple as it steps outside its usual walled garden.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 commissions new digital-first titles

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4 Digital, headed by Sacha Khari, has commissioned its first original drama as well as three new investigative documentaries.

BizAsia: BBC Asian Network to request a “reduction in news & current affairs”

Story from BizAsia:

Ofcom has today published its annual report on the BBC, which assesses the Corporation’s performance in meeting the needs of viewers and listeners over the period April 2023 to March 2024.

City AM: Premier Sports boss on Champions Cup, 24/7 rugby channel and rights

Story from City AM:

Ahead of the Investec Champions Cup, City AM sat down with Richard Sweeney of Premier Sports as the broadcaster takes on European rugby’s rights.

Advanced Television: StackAdapt collaborates with Channel 4

Story from Advanced Television:

StackAdapt, a multi-channel programmatic advertising platform, has announced a collaboration with Channel 4 to open up broadcast advertising inventory for StackAdapt clients in the UK for the first time, making it one of the few programmatic partners to offer access to Channel 4’s programmatic TV inventory.

Broadband TV News: ITVX celebrates second birthday as fastest growing major streaming platform

Story from Broadband TV News:

ITVX will celebrate its second anniversary on December 2 with a 35% in viewing hours over the two years since it replaced ITV Hub.

Deadline: Amazon Could Distribute Max In UK, Germany And Italy After Sky’s HBO Output Deals Expire, Warner Bros. Discovery’s JB Perrette Says

Story from Deadline:

With a big question looming over HBO distribution in the UK, Germany and Italy as Warner Bros. Discovery rolls out Max globally, Warner Bros. Discovery’s JB Perrette floated a potential new partner in the territories: Amazon.

Daily Mail: British football's 3pm TV blackout 'set to be scrapped'

Story from Daily Mail:

The 3pm blackout could be scrapped before the end of the decade – thanks largely to a slowing in precious TV revenues.

Advanced Television: England Hockey internationals on Channel 4

Story from Advanced Television:

England Hockey has confirmed a new partnership with Channel 4, unveiling the broadcaster as the Official Broadcast Partner for the FIH Hockey Pro League.

Daily Mail: Martin Frizell steps down as editor of This Morning after 10 years

Story from Daily Mail:

Martin Frizell is stepping down as editor of ITV's This Morning after ten years in charge, it emerged today.

F1 drivers will go on strike from December 13th to play some Darts

My V6 box has confirmed that Sky Sports Darts HD will appear on Sky Sports F1 HD from December 13th at 6am.

Advanced Television: ITV, Formula E sign new broadcast deal

Story from Advanced Television:

Formula E and ITV have announced a new free-to-air broadcast deal for the UK and Ireland, with all 16 E-Prix and Qualifying sessions for Season 11 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship to be shown live on ITV4 and ITVX.

Variety: BBC Licence Fee Confirmed Until at Least 2027 as U.K. Culture Minister Considers Funding Options for Broadcaster

Story from Variety:

U.K. culture minister Lisa Nandy has committed to continuing the BBC‘s licence fee model until at least 2027.

Advanced Television: SAP, AWS move BBC’s IT systems to cloud

Story from Advanced Television:

The BBC has continued its relationship with SAP to transform its IT systems, including finance, HR and procurement.

Paramount Global for sale latest - Deadline: Paramount Committed To Channel 5 Amid Skydance Sale Process, Says UK Chief Sarah Rose

Story from Deadline:

Channel 5 remains part of the Paramount “ecosystem” as the Skydance sale progresses and the network’s American owners are even “envious” of its model, according to UK chief Sarah Rose.

Sky Sports + app launches on Virgin Media's V6 Boxes

The Sky Sports + app has now launch on Virgin Media's V6 Boxes via the Red Button on the Sky Sports + Channels. Information was first reported by UK Cable TV Changes.

Advanced Television: STV “in line” despite ad slump

Story from Advanced Television:

STV Group, in a trading update, has reported that performance remains “in line with market expectations, despite ongoing weakness in the linear TV advertising and commissioning markets”.

Advanced Television: The Smurfs returning to S4C

Story from Advanced Television:

International children’s television favourite, The Smurfs, are set to return to S4C – under their Welsh name, Y Smyrffs – for the first time in 40 years.

Has Virgin Media UK signed an new deal with Sky UK?

UK Cable TV Changes is tonight reporting that Virgin Media UK has updated their list of FAST Channels that is maybe coming soon to Virgin:

Advanced Television: RSC Chair to lead Creative Industries Council

Story from Advanced Television:

Baroness Shriti Vadera has been appointed by the Culture Secretary as the new co-chair of the Creative Industries Council – a key forum that brings together government and the businesses and public bodies of the UK’s creative industries.

Radio Today: NUJ urges reversal of BBC digital radio station plans

Story from Radio Today:

The National Union of Journalists has reiterated its concern over the BBC’s proposals to launch two new digital radio stations including an extension to BBC Radio 2.

Advanced Television: Dagnell named ITV’s Director of News

Story from Advanced Television:

ITV has announced that Editor of ITV Network News, Andrew Dagnell, has been promoted to lead news and current affairs content across the whole of ITV, reporting to Kevin Lygo.

Broadband TV News: Renewal for Sky’s Day of the Jackal

Story from Broadband TV News:

An unrivalled and highly elusive lone assassin, the Jackal, (Eddie Redmayne) makes his living carrying out hits for the highest fee.

Sky News: ITV back in spotlight as suitors screen potential bids

Story from Sky News:

Potential suitors have again begun circling ITV, Britain’s biggest terrestrial commercial broadcaster, after a prolonged period of share price weakness and renewed questions about its long-term strategic destiny.

Advanced Television: WWE Network shutting in UK ahead of Netflix move

Story from Advanced Television:

From January 6th 2025, WWE’s flagship weekly programming – Raw, SmackDown and NXT – will stream on Netflix alongside all previous and future Premium Live Events.

Advanced Television: TNT Sports acquires UK rights to SailGP

Story from Advanced Television:

SailGP has announced that TNT Sports will be the new, exclusive broadcaster of the global racing championship in the UK and Ireland for the upcoming 2025 Season – which starts on November 23rd in Dubai.

Variety; ‘Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking’ Lands on Prime Video in the U.K.

Story from Variety:

“Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking” has been acquired by Prime Video for the U.K and Ireland.

BBC News: Gary Lineker steps down as Sports Personality host

Story from BBC News:

Gary Lineker has stepped down as co-presenter of the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year, following the news that he will leave Match of the Day, the corporation has confirmed.

Advanced Television: S4C, Media Cymru announce digital future project

Story from Advanced Television:

Welsh-language public service broadcaster S4C and Welsh media consortium Media Cymru have announced that they have called “the most ambitious research and development project in S4C’s history”.

Advanced Television: TNT Sports extends MotoGP deal

Story from Advanced Television:

TNT Sports will continue to be the home of MotoGP after agreeing a new multi-year deal to broadcast the championship in the UK and Ireland.

Advanced Television; Report: Blue Lights boosted Northern Ireland economy by £20m

Story from Advanced Television:

The BBC Economic Impact Report for Northern Ireland shows the drama series Blue Lights has had a positive impact on the economy across its first two seasons, alongside other network productions made in Northern Ireland.

BBC News; Lineker: It is 'right time' to leave Match of the Day

Story from BBC News:

Gary Lineker has said it is "the right time" for another presenter to take on hosting Match of the Day, as the BBC looks to do the football programme "slightly differently" in the future.

Advanced Television: The Day of the Jackal sets Sky viewing record

Story from Advanced Television:

The Day of the Jackal has become the biggest launch on Sky in over two years, drawing a record audience of 3 million in its first week making it the biggest Sky Original ever.

That's TV 2 launches on Virgin Media UK

Virgin Media UK has make some changes today:

Variety: Amazon Is Shutting Down Freevee, Its Ad-Supported Video Streamer

Story from Variety:

RIP, Freevee.

Deadline: BBC Confirms Gary Lineker Will Leave ‘Match Of The Day’ Next Year

Story from Deadline:

The BBC has confirmed reports on Monday night that Gary Lineker is leaving Match of the Day at the end of the current Premier League season.

Broadband TV News: “Natural leader” Geraint Evans named as new S4C boss

Story from Broadband TV News:

Welsh language channel S4C has announced Geraint Evans as its new chief executive.

Broadcast Sport: Premier Sports on its European rugby & 24/7 rugby channel plans

Story from Broadcast Sport:

Lawrence Dallaglio, Natasha ‘Mo’ Hunt, Andy Goode, Chris Robshaw, Topsy Ojo & Martin Bayfield are among the 32 pundits, presenters and commentators announced for Premier Sports’ coverage of the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup.

Advanced Television; Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking coming to Prime Video UK

Story from Advanced Television:

Prime Video has announced that the newest addition to the Wizarding World franchise, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, will debut on Prime Video in the UK and Ireland this December.

Broadband TV News: National League goes live on DAZN

Story from Broadband TV News:

DAZN has become the global home of the Vanarama National League with both domestic UK and global rights.

SportsPro: Premier Sports adamant European rugby and dedicated channel will drive subscriptions

Story from SportsPro:

Premier Sports say it is confident in the power of club rugby union to attract subscribers to its pay-TV service in the UK and Ireland ahead of a launch of a channel dedicated to the sport in early 2025.

EXCLUSIVE: Virgin Media UK set to move That's Christmas to new EPG number soon

Virgin Media UK ARE SET to move That's Christmas (aka That's TV 3) soon to a new channel number.

Deadline: UK Government Launches Forum To Consider Future Of Linear TV Amid Streaming Revolution

Story from Deadline:

The UK government plans to examine ways of sustainably preserving linear television for older and underprivileged audiences amid the streaming revolution.

Advanced Television: UKTV completes rollout of U Masterbrand

Story from Advanced Television:

UKTV has completed the rollout of its U Masterbrand with the commercial broadcaster’s pay channels, Gold & Alibi, transitioning to U&Gold and U&alibi across paid linear and on demand platforms.

Hollywood Reporter: Channel 4 Kicks Ex-U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson Out of Election Panel for Plugging Book

Story from Hollywood Reporter:

Former U.K. prime minister Boris Johnson was “fired” from Channel 4‘s overnight election coverage after going on and on about his book, according to the program’s co-host.

Broadband TV News: New ITV cost savings after revenues drop

Story from Broadband TV News:

ITV has announced a further £20 million in cost savings in 2024.

Advanced Television: UK media merger laws to be modernised

Story from Advanced Television:

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has announced plans to broaden the scope of the UK’s media mergers regime, updating it for the digital age to reflect modern news consumption habits and better protect media freedom and plurality.

Deadline: Emily Maitlis Told Off For Swearing During Channel 4’s Sometimes Chaotic U.S. Election Night Live

Story from Deadline:

Emily Maitlis was reprimanded for swearing by her co-host Krishnan Guru-Murthy during Channel 4‘s lively coverage of the U.S. election in the UK.

Hollywood Reporter; BBC Is a “Very British Success Story,” New Chair Says But Warns: “The Fight Is on”

Story from Hollywood Reporter:

The BBC “is a very British success story”, new chair Samir Shah said in Leeds, England on Tuesday in his first public speech, in which he outlined his vision for the future of U.K. public service broadcasting and his priorities for the BBC.

Advanced Television: DAZN, Queensberry Promotions multi-year rights deal

Story from Advanced Television:

Queensberry Promotions, the boxing promotion company founded by Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren, has entered into a multi-year media rights agreement with DAZN, the sport streaming platform.

That's TV 2 set to launch on Virgin Media UK

UK Cable TV Changes are today reporting That's TV 2 are testing in Virgin Media O2 HQ ahead of launching on Virgin UK Channel 151.

Deadline: BBC Chair Samir Shah Calls For Action To Future-Proof Public Service Broadcasting In First Major Speech: “The Fight Is On”

Story from Deadline:

BBC Chairman Samir Shah will launch a staunch defense of the UK’s public broadcasting system in his first major speech.

Variety: Freddie Flintoff Sets Disney+ Documentary Charting Recovery From ‘Top Gear’ Crash and Return to Cricket

Story from Variety:

Freddie Flintoff has teamed up with Disney+ for an original documentary film about his cricket career and recovery from his near-fatal “Top Gear” crash in 2022.

Media Guardian: Sky faces bill for hundreds of millions after advertising blunder

Story from Media Guardian:

Sky is facing a bill for hundreds of millions of pounds after a blunder that meant it accidentally underpaid its advertising partners, it has emerged.

The Sun: BBC reveal future of hit comedy panel show after 19 series on air

Story from The Sun:

Fans of The Blame Game will no longer be playing a guessing game as the BBC has confirmed the hit show will be returning for its 20th series.

The Sun: Sky Sports slammed as ‘complete joke’ as technical error leaves fans unable to watch bumper night of cup football

Story from The Sun:

Football fans were left furious after Sky Sports Plus appeared to crash during Manchester United's Carabao Cup clash with Leicester City.

Advanced Television: Government responds to creator remuneration report

Story from Advanced Television:

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee of the UK House of Commons has published the Government response to the report on creator remuneration from the committee in the last Parliament.

Advanced Television: UK creative industries funding confirmed

Story from Advanced Television:

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has welcomed confirmation in the Budget of the government’s commitment to support the creative industries – as part of the Industrial Strategy – recognising the key role it can play in economic growth.

The Sun: Major TV change as England’s Autumn International rugby fixtures move to new channel

Story from The Sun:

England will be shown by a new broadcaster in this year's Autumn International fixtures.

Advanced Television: Pluto TV expands NBCU content in UK

Story from Advanced Television:

Pluto TV has announced a partnership with NBCUniversal (NBCU) Global TV Distribution to bring an array of comedy, dramedy, action, and fan favourites content to viewers in the UK starting November 1st.

BBC News: Sturgeon paid £25k for ITV general election appearance

Story from BBC News:

Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon was paid £25,000 to appear on ITV’s general election results programme, it has been revealed.

Deadline: Ofcom Fines GB News £100,000 Over Rishi Sunak Live Show; GB News Boss Decries “Direct Attack On Free Speech & Journalism”

Story from Deadline:

Ofcom has fined GB News £100,000 over its People’s Forum: The Prime Minister live show with Rishi Sunak just prior to the UK general election, with the head of GB News calling the move a “direct attack on free speech and journalism.”

Sky Sports; WSL new broadcast deal: Sky Sports and The BBC to remain home of women's football in historic five-year deal from 2025/26 season

Story from Sky Sports & The BBC:

Sky has announced a historic five-year partnership with the Women's Professional League, securing the rights to show nearly 90 per cent of all Women's Super League matches from the 2025/26 season.

Advanced Television: ITV scores Ligue 1 highlights

Story from Advanced Television:

LFP Media and ITV have announced a deal that will see ITV broadcast the weekly Ligue 1 McDonald’s highlights magazine show in the UK during the current 2024/25 season.

Advanced Television: ITV extends Lionesses deal

Story from Advanced Television:

ITV has agreed a new four-year record deal with The FA as they will continue to be the home of the Lionesses from 2025-2029.

Media Guardian: No more international cricket live on free-to-air TV as ECB fails to agree deal

Story from Media Guardian:

The England men’s and women’s cricket teams are set to return fully behind the Sky Sports paywall next season after an extension to the BBC rights deal in which the ­corporation opted out of showing live internationals.

Advanced Television; Channel 4’s Katz: ‘No AI-generated drama’

Story from Advanced Television:

Ian Katz, Chief Content Officer at UK PSB Channel 4, has said the channel is not planning to follow the lead of fellow PSB ITV in seeking to recruit a Head of Generative AI to help create ‘shows, films and digital-first content’.

Advanced Television; Survey: Film & TV industry has government budget concerns

Story from Advanced Television:

Specialist film and TV PR consultancy Percy & Warren has revealed the findings of its pre-budget survey of UK film and television producers.

Variety; BBC Reports 10,000 Shows Viewed Online a Day, Compared With Netflix’s 4,800, Prime Video’s 2,400: ‘Everyone’s a Streamer, Even the Broadcasters’

Story from Variety:

The streaming platforms of European broadcasters are outgunning the global streamers when it comes to depth of content, research agency Glance reported in Cannes during TV market Mipcom this week.

Broadband TV News: Create and Craft confirms closure

Story from Broadband TV News:

Shopping channel Create and Craft has confirmed its closure, days after Sky removed the channel from its programme guide.

Advanced Television: Top cycling races remain on Warner Bros Discovery services

Story from Advanced Television:

Warner Bros Discovery Sports Europe is extending its rights to show a large number of the world’s greatest cycling races until at least 2030.

Advanced Television: Asian channel boost for Virgin TV subs for Diwali

Story from Advanced Television:

From October 25th until November 8th and in celebration of Diwali, Virgin Media TV customers can enjoy access to 14 premium South Asian TV channels at no extra cost, bringing a wealth of world-leading South Asian entertainment into homes across the UK.

Broadband TV News: Virgin Media rebrands Stream product as Flex

Story from Broadband TV News:

Virgin Media has rebranded its Steam product as well as bringing in a new £5 monthly free for new subscribers.

Virgin Media: Virgin Media O2 to make multi-million-pound investment in new central Manchester office

Story from Virgin Media O2:

Virgin Media O2 has signed a commitment to invest in a new state-of-the art office space in central Manchester, agreeing a contract with Island that will see the new and innovative net zero carbon workspace become the company’s central Manchester office location from late next year.

Variety: ScreenSkills Teams With BBC, Channel 4 on Five-Year Plan to Boost U.K. Screen Industry Workforce

Story from Variety:

ScreenSkills, the U.K.‘s screen industry skills body, has unveiled an ambitious five-year strategy aimed at developing a robust workforce to support the nation’s £13.48 billion screen sector.

Advanced Television: ITV, Mattel announce Pictionary game show

Story from Advanced Television:

Mattel, the toy and family entertainment company, and ITV have jointly announced new game show Pictionary (25 x 30”) based on the popular drawing game. The show will be produced by Whisper North and hosted by Mel Giedroyc.

BBC News: Government intervenes over film studio proposals

Story from BBC News:

The government has intervened over planning proposals to build one of the UK's biggest film and TV studio complexes.

Virgin Media rebrand NDTV News TWO weeks after it rebrand

Virgin Media UK has rebranded NDTV 24x7 as NDTV World on Virgin UK Channel 621.

Media Guardian: Sky’s full-year losses double to £224m as revenue flatlines

Story from Media Guardian:

Sky reported a doubling of its annual losses last year as the media and telecoms company spent more on programming and costs relating to its broadband services and hardware such as mobile devices and Sky Glass TVs increased.

MTV Christmas back next month

Virgin Media TV Boxes has confirmed that MTV 90s will become MTV Xmas on November 1st.

Information was found by Media Boy UK on X Follower Kristian Burrows.

 

Advanced Television: 4creative appoints Wigglesworth as ECD & Creative Partner

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4 has appointed David Wigglesworth as Executive Creative Director & Creative Partner of 4creative, its in-house creative agency.

Rumour: Rewind TV ''To launch on Virgin Media soon''

''Popeye'' has told me on X that ''Rewind TV is coming to Virgin Media but no date has been set yet. I think January 2025 launch.''

Media Guardian: London Live profits plunged by 75%

 Story from Media Guardian:

In The Evening Standard financial accounts the company said London Live, the capital-focused TV station profits plunged by 75% because of the loss of an unnamed key customer. Pre-tax profits fell to £746,000 in the year to 30 September 2023, compared with £2.99m in 2022. Revenues almost halved from £7.2m to £4.1m.

Radio Today: More job cuts announced as BBC radio stations combine further bulletins and programmes

Story from Radio Today:

More programme and news sharing is coming to BBC Asian Network and 5 Live as the BBC announces proposals to cut dozens of radio jobs across the newsrooms.

Cable Forum: Virgin Media UK rebrand their Stream network as Flex

Cable Forum is saying that Virgin Media Stream is NOW known as Flex and comes with a £5 monthly charge for new customers (no change for existing Stream customers).

Broadcast: Channel 4 to overhaul streaming service

Story from Broadcast:

Channel 4 has kicked off a major overhaul of its streaming platform, as part of its Fast Forward strategy to transform into a “genuinely digital-first public service streamer”.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 to boost impact across Nations and Regions

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4 has unveiled what it calls its “biggest-ever intervention in the UK creative industries”, with a package of measures focused on three core areas – skills, content, and people – to serve and reflect the whole of the UK.

Advanced Television: That's TV 3 put it's Christmas tree up

Story from Advanced Television:

That’s TV has launched its annual Christmas entertainment channel That’s Christmas.

Eden channels rebrand

Here is a list of overnight changes on Virgin Media:

Virgin Go now on Apple TV devices

Media Boy UK has just been told by an Media Boy UK on X Follower that Virgin Go is now available on Apple TV devices.

But The Sky Channels are not available except:

• Sky History 2
• Sky Kids

Advanced Television: 10-year PSB licence for Channel 4

Story from Advanced Television:

UK broadcast regulator Ofcom has published its decisions on a new broadcast licence for Channel 4, supporting its digital growth and securing public service broadcasting on the channel for a further ten years.

Deadline: BBC Axes ‘HARDtalk’ As Dozens Of Layoffs Hit News Division

Story from Deadline:

The BBC has axed investigative journalism show HARDtalk after nearly 30 years as part of a 130-person layoff program in its news division.

Deadline: Sale Of ‘Sherlock’ & ‘The Outlaws’ Studio Bottle Yard Given Go-Ahead Despite Union Protest

Story from Deadline:

The UK studio landscape is set for another shakeup with Bristol City Council pushing on with a decision to sell Bottle Yard Studios, where Sherlock, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder and The Outlaws were filmed.

Today's Virgin Media UK changes

Virgin Media UK has make a following changes to their network overnight - NOT on TiVo boxes:

Advanced Television; UK Govt: Creative sector key to Industrial Strategy

Story from Advanced Television:

Sky Group CEO, Dana Strong said: “We welcome the decision to prioritise the Creative Industries in the government’s industrial strategy.

Deadline: BBC Boss Bans The Word “Talent”

Story from Deadline:

Don’t let BBC Director General Tim Davie hear you say the word “talent.”

Deadline: Former ITV Commissioner Nicola Lloyd Joins ‘The Apprentice’ Producer Naked As Creative Director

Story from Deadline:

Nicola Lloyd, the ex-ITV commissioner who used to oversee Gordon Ramsay, Gino D’Acampo and Bradley Walsh shows, has taken up the Creative Director post at The Apprentice producer Naked.

Media Guardian: Labour push for growth spurs Sky appeal against block on film studios expansion

Story from Media Guardian:

Sky is likely to appeal against a planning decision blocking the expansion of its film studios, amid signs that the Labour government is willing to allow building on the green belt to prioritise economic growth.

National World: Paddy McGuinness 'was paid £250,000 by BBC despite Top Gear and Question of Sport being axed' claim insiders

Story from National World:

A BBC star was given £250,000 even though two of the major programmes he worked on were taken off air, it has been claimed.

BBC News: BBC launches review into preventing abuses of power

Story from BBC News:

The BBC has announced details of a review into its workplace culture, focusing on "preventing abuse of power and ensuring everyone at the BBC conducts themselves in line with our values".

Broadband TV News: Paramount+ updates UK terms and conditions to include advertising

Story from Broadband TV News:

Paramount has told its UK subscribers that its updating its terms of use.

Advanced Television: Virgin Media launches digital payment systems

Story from Advanced Television:

Virgin Media has become the first major UK telecoms provider to enable digital methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay for recurring contract payments, providing an alternative to traditional direct debits.

U Media to rebrand Ailbi and Gold next month

U Media has confirmed the following things will happen on November 7th.

Broadband TV News: Netflix UK grows profits by £22m

Story from Broadband TV News:

Netflix has seen the profits for its UK subsidiary grow by £22 million in 2023, according to a Companies House return.

Advanced Television: More Disney titles coming to ITVX

Story from Advanced Television:

ITV has acquired Welcome to Chippendales and Culprits from Disney Entertainment. Both series will be available to stream for free on ITVX later this year.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 reports “resilient performance”; Ofcom approval

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4 has published its annual report for 2023 – later in the year than usual due to the General Election – and provided in-year update on 2024 progress.

Deadline: UK Government Reviewing Decision To Refuse Planning Permission For James Cameron-Backed £750M Film Studio

Story from Deadline:

An appeal against the refusal to give planning permission to a James Cameron-backed £750M UK film studio has reached the UK government.

Deadline: Stormy Daniels & Boris Johnson To Guest On Channel 4’s U.S. Election Night Coverage

Story from Deadline:

UK broadcaster Channel 4 has booked Stormy Daniels and Boris Johnson to feature as guests on its first live U.S. election night show in 32 years.

Deadline: Channel 4 Posts Record Deficit As Content Chief Ian Katz Snubs Bonus

Story from Deadline:

Channel 4 posted its biggest deficit of all time last year in what was a chastening financial year, with content boss Ian Katz deciding to reject his bonus.

Deadline: Channel 4 Content Boss Criticizes Channel 5 For Failing To Challenge Phillip Schofield On ‘Cast Away’

Story from Deadline:

Phillip Schofield‘s swift return to TV on Channel 5 over the weekend has generated plenty headlines and the move has clearly dominated chatter at rival broadcasters.

That's Media to start Christmas on October 16th

My Virgin Media's V6 box is saying That's TV 3 will become That's Christmas from October 16th.

 

Deadline: Spotify EMEA Sales Boss Heading To Channel 4 To Run Commercial

Story from Deadline:

The head of sales for Spotify in EMEA is moving to Channel 4 to run the commercial team.

Broadband TV News: GB News facing “substantial fine” after losing High Court challenge

Story from Broadband TV News:

GB News is heading for a substantial fine after the right-leaning channel failed in its High Court bid that would have blocked sanctions brought by the communications regulator Ofcom.

Deadline: ITV News Chief Michael Jermey Quits After 16 Years

Story from Deadline:

Michael Jermey, ITV‘s director of news and current affairs, has resigned after 16 years to chair the Disasters Emergency Committee.

Media Guardian: BBC cancels Boris Johnson interview after Laura Kuenssberg message gaffe

Story from Media Guardian:

The BBC has cancelled a prime-time interview with Boris Johnson after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg accidentally sent the former prime minister her briefing notes.

Broadband TV News: GB News goes to High Court to block Ofcom sanctions

Story from Broadband TV News:

GB News has asked a High Court judge to prevent Ofcom from sanctioning the controversial order over a string of breaches of its programming code.

Broadband TV News: Sky Sports secures last minute deal for England’s cricket tour of Pakistan

Story from Broadband TV News:

Sky has made an eleventh hour agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board to screen coverage of England’s tour of Pakistan.

QVC+ app launches on Virgin Media UK

Media Boy UK HQ can confirmed that ''QVC+'' app has today on Virgin Media UK boxes.

Virgin Media's TVGo app launches on Apple TV devices

Virgin Media's TVGo app is now available on Apple TV devices.

Deadline; BBC Boss Tim Davie To Urge The TV Industry To Put Sustainability Content Front & Center: “We Have A Huge Creative Opportunity”

Story from Deadline:

BBC Director General Tim Davie will get on the front foot when it comes to sustainability and climate change this week and urge the industry to put content speaking to these issues front and center. Speaking at the Climate Creatives event this Wednesday, Davie will say that focusing on content that addresses sustainability and climate change is a “huge opportunity.”

Advanced Television: Valentine named Director of BBC Scotland

Story from Advanced Television:

The BBC has appointed journalist and editorial leader Hayley Valentine as its new Director in Scotland.

Deadline: The BBC’s ‘Question Time’ Discussion Show Forced To Correct Itself Live On Air

Story from Deadline:

The BBC has in recent years promoted its “Verify” service in which a special unit acts speedily to support or debunk claims made by guests, often political, on live TV and radio.

Advanced Television: Free kids channels on Virgin TV this October

Story from Advanced Television:

Throughout October, all Virgin TV customers will be given access to additional kids TV channels free of charge including Sky Kids, Cartoon Network, Boomerang HD, Cartoonito HD, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr, Nick Jr Too and Nicktoons.

Virgin Media will remove Netflix from TiVo boxes in November

Netflix will no longer be available via Virgin TiVo box from November 2024

The Sun: Darts could be set for major broadcasting change with Luke Littler and Co moving from Sky Sports

Story from The Sun:

Darts could be set for a major broadcasting change with stars such as Luke Littler and Michael van Gerwen moving away from Sky Sports.

Advanced Television: ITVX adds Home of the Huns rail

Story from Advanced Television:

ITV’s research titled Hey Hunni: the ultimate guide to Hun Culture has explored the phenomenon of Hun Culture using semiotic, qualitative and comms planning techniques and identifies the audience opportunities for brands.

Two new HD channels appear on Virgin Media

The following changes has happen today on Virgin Media to Warner Bros. Discovery.

Variety: Disgraced Morning Show Anchor Phillip Schofield Plots Comeback With Channel 5 Special ‘Cast Away’

Story from Variety:

Disgraced Morning Show Anchor Phillip Schofield Plots Comeback With Channel 5 Special ‘Cast Away’o an affair with a PA, is planning a return to television.

Advanced Television: ITV extends Matchroom deal

Story from Advanced Television:

ITV will continue to televise major snooker and darts events following the signing of a one-year extension with Matchroom.

Advanced Television: Sky extends UKTV carriage deal

Story from Advanced Television:

Sky and UKTV have announced a multi-year extension to their long-standing partnership.

Virgin Media updates it Virgin TV Go app

Story from Virgin Media web site:

Find yourself locked in an eternal struggle to seize control of the precious TV remote? There is another way to enjoy the telly you love…

Broadband TV News: ITV is to launch two new TV ads created using Generative AI

Story from Broadband TV News:

This Monday ITV viewers will see two new-to-TV brands take launch advertising campaigns using commercials crated through the use of GenAI.

Deadline: BBC Creates Mental Health & Wellbeing Team Led By Former Adviser To Reality TV Inquiry

Story from Deadline:

The BBC is placing renewed focus on improving staff mental health by creating a small wellbeing team led by a psychotherapist who contributed to the parliamentary inquiry into reality TV.

Sky News: Ofcom will not investigate after Yvette Cooper interviewed by husband Ed Balls on ITV's Good Morning Britain

Story from Sky News:

Media regulator Ofcom has confirmed it will not launch an investigation after Home Secretary Yvette Cooper was interviewed by her husband Ed Balls live on TV.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 streaming minutes up 25% in 2024

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4’s streaming growth continues, with minutes viewed up 25 per cent (to 42 billion) between January and August 2024.

Deadline: More Layoffs Hit BBC Kids Department As CBBC Production Revamped

Story from Deadline:

Another round of layoffs has hit the BBC Children’s & Education department after a revamp to production of the CBBC Studio.

Advanced Television: BBFC, Prime Video new self-rating partnership

Story from Advanced Television:

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has announced a new self-rating agreement with Prime Video, building on the existing relationship between the two organisations, which dates back to 2015.

Cable Forum: Virgin Media added 'DAZN' app to TV360 and Virgin Media stream boxes

Cable Forum is reporting that Virgin Media O2 has added 'DAZN app' to TV360 boxes.

Deadline: Former BBC Chair Richard Sharp Urges Tim Davie To Make “Tough” Decisions In Order To Spend More On Content

Story from Deadline:

Former BBC Chair Richard Sharp, who resigned in disgrace over his role in the Boris Johnson loan affair, has urged Director General Tim Davie to make tough decisions in order to give his content department more money.

Hollywood Reporter; ITV CEO on Planned U.K. Ban on Junk Food TV Ads for Children: “We’re Going to Have to Mitigate It”

Story from Hollywood Reporter:

U.K. TV giant ITV got only 45 percent of its total revenue from non-advertising sources in 2016, while this year it will get 60 percent from production and digital businesses, CEO Carolyn McCall told an industry conference in London on Tuesday.

Deadline; Alex Mahon: Channel 4 Is Starting To “Buy Bigger Again” After “Horrendous” Time For UK Producers

Story from Deadline:

Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon has said that the UK broadcaster is back in the market for big ideas after acknowledging that cuts have been “horrendous” for producers.

Deadline; “The Era Of Government Stoking Culture Wars Is Over”: New UK Culture Secretary Promises End To “Divisive Decade”

Story from Deadline:

“The era of government stoking culture wars is over,” promised new UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy this afternoon as she delivered her first keynote in the role.

Variety; BBC Boss Tim Davie Says Huw Edwards Won’t Work for Broadcaster Again: ‘He’s Been Convicted of Appalling Crimes’

Story from Variety:

BBC boss Tim Davie has said he can’t ever see disgraced ex anchor Huw Edwards working for the BBC again.

Hollywood Reporter: Warner Bros. Discovery Exec Looks to 2026 Max Launch in UK

Story from Hollywood Reporter:

Everyone agrees: the U.K. is and will remain a production hotspot.

Advanced Television: Rawcliffe named ITV Chief People Officer

Story from Advanced Television:

Ade Rawcliffe has been named ITV Chief People Officer effective from January 2025.

Broadband TV News: BBC iPlayer is fastest growing VOD platform in the UK

Story from Broadband TV News:

BBC iPlayer has pilled ahead of its competitors with growth that is twice that of Netflix, three times ITVX and four times that of Channel 4.

Advanced Television: New 10-year PSB licences for ITV, Channel 5

Story from Advanced Television:

UK broadcast regulator Ofcom has published the renewed broadcast licences for Channel 3 (ITV/STV) and Channel 5, securing public service broadcasting on these channels for a further ten years.

Deadline: UK TV Diversity Monitoring Project To Introduce Questions On Jewish & Muslim Identity For First Time

Story from Deadline:

The UK TV diversity monitoring project is to introduce questions around Jewish and Muslim identity for the first time, as Diamond‘s seventh report reveals minor diversity gains.

Global Radio rebrand GOLD

Virgin Media has rebranded Global Radio's ''Gold'' as ''Gold Radio.'' on Virgin UK Channel 923.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 Paralympics watched by 20m

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4 has reported that its coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games reached 20 million viewers across linear and streaming – one third (33 per cent) of the total TV population – and helped the channel to its biggest audience share in 12 years.

Advanced Television: ITV captioning services partnership with AI-Media

Story from Advanced Television:

AI-Media, a specialist in AI-powered captioning and translation services, has announced a partnership with ITV.

Broadband TV News: Pluto TV ads suite of FAST news channels

Story from Broadband TV News:

Pluto TV is launching a collection of FAST channel focusing on global and local news coverage.

Deadline: UK Broadcasting Chiefs Branded “Callous” & “Cloth-Eared” By Pact Boss For Publicly Proclaiming Death Of Mid-Budget Shows

Story from Deadline:

UK broadcasting bosses have been branded “callous” and “cloth-eared” by the head of Pact for the way in which they publicly proclaimed the death of the mid-budget programing market.

Deadline: Tim Davie Questions Whether BBC Could Have Been More “Muscular” On Huw Edwards $260,000 Payment

Story from Deadline:

Huw Edwards‘ sentencing hearing is less than a week away and BBC boss Tim Davie has been questioning whether the corporation did the right thing in paying him nearly £200,000 ($260,000) between his arrest in November 2023 and his leaving several months later.

Deadline; ‘The Jeremy Kyle Show’: Coroner Rules ITV Show Cannot Be Blamed For Suicide Of Guest

Story from Deadline:

The Jeremy Kyle Show should not be blamed for the death of one of its guests, a coroner has ruled.

Virgin UK Changes: PBS goes HD and Virgin got CNN back

Virgin Media UK has today done a following changes:

EXCLUSIVE: Christmas 24 to launch next month

Our Breaking news page on X has broke that Media Boy UK has found out that Sky UK is set to rebrand Movies 24 and Movies 24+ as Christmas 24 and Christmas 24 + from October 1st 2024 and will run until January 6th 2025.

©Copyright 2024 Media Boy UK 2006 - 2024. A ''Doing it my way'' Production.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 to air Trump vs Harris debate

Story from Advanced Television:

Channel 4 will be the only UK broadcaster to air live coverage of the first US Presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, in partnership with ABC.

Advanced Television: FIFA+ on Pluto TV

Story from Advanced Television:

FAST service Pluto TV has announced the international launch of FIFA+ on its platform across multiple markets, including the UK.

Advanced Television: Channel 4 Paralympics coverage reaches 17m+ in first week

Story from Advanced Television:

With the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games now into its second week, data shows Channel 4’s coverage has reached 17.4 million viewers across linear and streaming – more than one quarter of the total TV population – up +4 per cent on the same stage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

Broadband TV News: Rakuten TV app added to Virgin TV in the UK

Story from Broadband TV News:

Rakuten TV has been added to the Virgin TV app line-up with over 8,000 titles available on demand.

Daily Mail: BBC cuts over 100 jobs while bosses pledge £80m on diversity drive

Story from Daily Mail:

The BBC has announced plans to cut more than 100 jobs, despite pledging to spend tens of millions on a diversity drive.

Broadcast Sport: ITV scores last minute Scotland & Northern Ireland Nations League deal

Story from Broadcast Sport:

ITV has secured the rights to Scotland and Northern Ireland’s Nations League fixtures this month.

Broadcast Sport: Prime unveils first UEFA Champions League fixtures

Story from Broadcast Sport:

Amazon has announced the first five games it will cover in the UK and Ireland.

Deadline: Sky Behind Feature Doc On Iconic British Director David Lean; Embankment Launching Sales At TIFF

Story from Deadline:

Iconic British director David Lean, whose credits included Lawrence of Arabia and Doctor Zhivago, is being given the feature documentary treatment by Sky, with Embankment Films launching sales at TIFF.

Reports: CNN HD set to launch on Virgin Media UK

Virgin Media are testing CNN HD ahead of it relaunch on Virgin Media.

CNN did close on Virgin Media in September 2021.

When launch it Virgin UK Channel will be 626.

X EXCLUSIVE: Rakuten TV launches on Virgin Media UK's V6 Boxes

Story from Media Boy UK on X:

CNN is back on Virgin Media UK but viewers will need to watch via Rakuten TV via Virgin on Demand on V6 Boxes.

©Copyright 2024 Media Boy UK 2006 - 2024. A ''Doing it my way'' Production.

Daily Mail: ITV open talks with Viaplay over deal for Scotland matches

Story from Daily Mail:

ITV have opened discussions over a deal to show Scotland’s Nations League qualifying campaign free-to-air.

Advanced Television: STV H1 revenue up 20%

Story from Advanced Television:

STV, the Scottish media group, has reported that total revenue rose by 20 per cent to £90.4 million in H1 2024 (compared to H1 2023) and adjusted operating profit increased by 33 per cent to £10.6 million.

Daily Record: Scotland games will be free to air as BBC seek deal with Premier Sports for Nations League clashes

Story from Daily Record:

Scotland matches are set to be on council telly once more after the BBC launched a joint bid with Premier Sports.

Broadband TV News: BBC launches Generative AI tool to add subtitles to BBC Sounds

Story from Broadband TV News:

The BBC has launched a new trial that uses a Generative AI tool to help us add subtitles and transcripts to content on BBC Sounds.

Broadband TV News: BBFC and Netflix sign new deal to extend collaboration

Story from Broadband TV News:

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has renewed its existing rating agreement with Netflix.

Broadband TV News: Viaplay subscription channel to launch in the UK on Prime Video

Story from Broadband TV News:

UK Prime Video customers will have access to premium Nordic and European series and films through a new add-on subscription to the Viaplay channel.

Daily Express: BBC faces £85m black hole as bosses launch drastic bid to save corporation

 Story from Daily Express:

The BBC could face a £85m financial shortfall, prompting discussions on radical measures to secure its future as it contends with declining licence fee revenues.

Advanced Television: BBC acquires One Piece anime series

 Story from Advanced Television:

The BBC has acquired the UK rights to over 1,000 episodes of the English dubbed versions of the celebrated anime series One Piece.

Broadband TV News: STV appoints Rufus Radcliffe as new CEO

Story from Broadband TV News:

STV Group plc today announces that Rufus Radcliffe will join the Board as Chief Executive Officer on Friday 1 November 2024.

Daily Express: BBC 'merge with Channel 4' backed by TV boss during licence fee crisis

 Story from Daily Express:

The BBC faces significant financial challenges with declining TV licence revenue, prompting considerations of radical changes, including a merger with Channel 4.

Daily Mail: Gary Lineker provides update on his Match of the Day future

Story from Daily Mail:

Gary Lineker has indicated he is willing to stay on as host of Match of the Day after his 'natural successor' Jermaine Jenas was sacked by the BBC last week.

Advanced Television: Serie A, Ligue 1 go DTC in UK

Story from Advanced Television:

OneFootball and Lega Serie A have announced a partnership to deliver coverage of Italy’s top flight football league to fans in the UK and Ireland for the 2024/2025 season.

Broadband TV News: Akhila Khanna appointed Director of Distribution at ITV

Story from Broadband TV News:

ITV’s Chief Viewer Officer Jane Stiller has announced the appointment of Akhila Khanna to head up the Media and Entertainment division’s UK distribution strategy, in the role of Director of Distribution, starting in October.

Daily Mail: Bryn Law slams Sky Sports' coverage of Liverpool vs Brentford

Story from Daily Mail:

Former Sky commentator Bryn Law has criticised Sky Sports' coverage of Liverpool's victory against Brentford on Sunday.

Variety: ‘The Traitors’ U.K. Sets Celebrity Edition as BBC Confirms Season 4 of Hit Reality Series

Story from Variety:

''The Traitors” U.K. fans are in for a treat as the BBC today confirmed a fourth season of the hit show as well as a celebrity edition.