BBC Three to return as TV channel next year, announces Ofcom
The network that launched ‘Fleabag’ has only been available online since 2016
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.BBC Three, the digital platform that’s brought the public shows such as Fleabag and Normal People, is returning as a TV channel in 2022.
On Thursday (25 November), media regulator Ofcom officially confirmed a February launch for BBC Three.
The channel will be available on Freeview, Sky, Virgin and Freesat with EPG numbers to be confirmed at a later date.
BBC Three first launched as a broadcast channel in February 2003. It was on air for 13 years until February 2016 when it moved online to follow audience habits.
It is now being reinstated as a TV channel with the aim of reaching underserved youth audiences and an emphasis placed on original programming.
In a statement, Ofcom said: “We carefully assessed the BBC’s plans, alongside evidence and feedback gathered during our consultation.
“We concluded that the channel’s re-launch will help the BBC to increase its reach among younger underserved viewers – particularly those from lower-income homes, and audiences who live outside London and the South East.
“To ensure the channel is distinctive, at least 75 per cent of hours broadcast each year must be original programmes, commissioned by the BBC for UK viewers. We are also requiring the channel to deliver first-run UK content across a mix of genres, as well as weekday news programmes.”
BBC Three has launched many beloved shows over the years, from Gavin & Stacey in 2007 and People Just Do Nothing in 2014 to Fleabag in 2016 and Normal People in 2020.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Commenting on the decision, Fiona Campbell, controller for BBC Three, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled... This is a big moment, with the new channel providing a destination for young audiences to discover more content on the BBC.
“We will work hand in hand with iPlayer to provide a broad offering that is representative of the whole of the UK and we will continue to back new talent and bold ideas.
“This approach will bring the audience a distinctive mix of programs that are there to entertain, inspire and challenge thinking, at a pivotal and exciting time to be young in the UK.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments