ITV's CITV Channel Closes After 42 Years on Air
A popular ITV channel has shut down permanently after 42 years of broadcasting. CITV, the dedicated children's television channel, has officially come to an end following more than four decades on screens.
Announcement and Farewell
Announcing the move, a social media account stated: "This really means the end of the iconic CITV brand that's been around for 42 years. Farewell CITV, this time for real." The closure was initially planned in 2023 by ITV, which competes with broadcasters like Channel 4, BBC, and Channel 5.
Programming Transition
CBBC will incorporate some of CITV's programming, while the remainder will be available under the new ITVX Kids section. The channel originally launched in 2006, building on the success of the Children's ITV programming block that began in 1983 as dedicated late afternoon content for children aged five to 13.
New Streaming Destination
On Friday, the broadcaster confirmed that the CITV channel is set to close in early autumn, coinciding with the launch of a new dedicated destination for kids on its streaming service, ITVX. ITV aims for all ITVX Kids content to be subtitled, with 20% offering audio description.
ITVX Kids Features
Managing editor of ITVX, Craig Morris, commented on the new plans: "We're really excited to launch this dedicated destination for kids on ITVX, which will be home to a wealth of content including new series, recognisable brands and existing favourites for a range of ages, all in one child-safe area, with editorial curation to guide viewing."
He added: "The wealth of content will be available to stream for free, with the option for parents to choose ad-free viewing through a subscription to ITVX Premium."
Content Lineup
ITVX Kids will feature both new launches and well-known children's programmes, such as:
- The animated series of Mr Bean
- TeleTubbies Let's Go!
- Sooty
- Bob The Builder
New programmes are expected to be added monthly from July, covering genres like comedy, game shows, live action, animation, and sport. The content will be sourced from a broad spectrum of distributors, including small independents and regional UK suppliers.
