Major TV Channel Shake-Up: Seven Channels Depart Sky and Virgin Media This February
The television landscape is set for a significant reshuffle this month, as two of the UK's leading entertainment providers, Sky and Virgin Media, implement a series of channel changes. Seven channels in total are affected, with some closing down and others undergoing temporary or permanent rebrands, aiming to streamline the viewing experience for subscribers.
Key Channel Closures and the Return of Sky One
In a notable move, Sky Showcase and Sky Max will be axed in February. These closures pave the way for the return of the iconic Sky One, which is set to relaunch on channel 106 from Tuesday 24 February. This revamped channel is designed to become a central hub for Sky's comedy and entertainment programming, consolidating content to make it more accessible for viewers.
Carli Kerr, Managing Director of Sky TV & NOW, emphasised the strategic shift, stating, "Our goal is to make it easier than ever for Sky TV customers to find and enjoy the shows they love. Building on the iconic heritage of Sky One, the channel will be a one-of-a-kind destination that's big, bold and bursting with energy."
Programming Highlights on the New Sky One
The relaunched Sky One will feature a mix of new Sky Originals and returning favourites. Subscribers can look forward to brand-new shows such as The Dyers' Caravan Park and Gemma Collins: Four Weddings and a Baby, alongside popular series like Rob & Romesh Vs., The Paper, and Ted. Additionally, the channel will serve as the home for the highly anticipated Saturday Night Live UK, which is scheduled to launch later this year.
Full List of Channel Changes in February
The adjustments are being rolled out in stages throughout the month. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the changes affecting both Sky and Virgin Media platforms:
- Monday 2nd February:
- Nick SpongeBob (Satellite 605 / Sky Glass 206) rebrands back to Nicktoons.
- Sky Feel Good (Satellite 302 / Sky Glass 302) is temporarily renamed SkyValentineHD.
- Sky Comedy (Satellite 308 / Sky Glass 308) is temporarily renamed Groundhog Day HD.
- Sky Spider-Man (Satellite 307 / Sky Glass 307) reverts to Sky Action HD.
- Tuesday 3rd February:
- Groundhog Day (Satellite 308 / Sky Glass 308) reverts to Sky Comedy HD.
- Later in February:
- Sky Showcase closes permanently.
- Sky Max closes permanently.
- Sky One returns on channel 106 from Tuesday 24 February.
These changes reflect a broader effort by Sky to simplify its channel lineup, ensuring that customers can more easily navigate to their preferred content. The temporary rebrands, such as Groundhog Day HD, add a playful touch to the transition, while the consolidation under Sky One aims to create a stronger, more cohesive entertainment offering.
