Channel 4

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Channel 4 (On Demand) 2023
Multi coloured 4, 124 Horseferry Road, London
The Majestic (Channel 4)
Channel 4 logo 1982
Channel 4 logo 1996
Channel 4 logo 1999


Channel 4
CountryUnited Kingdom
Broadcast areaUnited Kingdom
HeadquartersLondon
Programming
Language(s)English
Picture format1080i HDTV
Ownership
OwnerChannel Four Television Corporation
Sister channelsE4, More4, Film4, 4Music
History
Launched2 November 1982
Links
Websitewww.channel4.com
Availability
Terrestrial
FreeviewChannel 4
Streaming media
All 4Watch live

Channel 4 is a British public-service television broadcaster that began transmission on 2 November 1982. It is wholly owned by the Channel Four Television Corporation, a public corporation of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

History[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 was established to provide a fourth television service to the United Kingdom in addition to the existing BBC One, BBC Two, and ITV. The channel was created to cater to minority interests and to provide an alternative to the mainstream offerings of the other three channels.

Programming[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 is known for its distinctive and often controversial programming. It has a remit to provide innovative and experimental content, which has led to the commissioning of a wide range of shows across various genres, including drama, comedy, documentary, and reality TV. Notable programs include The Great British Bake Off, Black Mirror, and Gogglebox.

News and Current Affairs[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 News is the channel's flagship news program, known for its in-depth analysis and investigative journalism. The program is produced by ITN and has won numerous awards for its coverage of national and international events.

Drama and Comedy[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 has a strong reputation for its drama and comedy output. It has produced critically acclaimed series such as Skins, Shameless, and The Inbetweeners. The channel is also known for its support of new and emerging talent in the industry.

Documentaries[edit | edit source]

The channel has a long history of producing groundbreaking documentaries. Series like Dispatches and Unreported World have tackled controversial and challenging subjects, often sparking public debate.

Ownership and Funding[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 is publicly owned but commercially funded. It generates revenue through advertising and sponsorship, and it does not receive public funding through the television licence fee. The channel's unique funding model allows it to reinvest profits into new programming and initiatives.

Digital and Online Services[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 has embraced digital technology and offers a range of online services. The channel's on-demand service, All 4, provides viewers with access to a vast library of Channel 4 content, including catch-up TV, box sets, and exclusive online-only shows.

Sister Channels[edit | edit source]

Channel 4 operates several sister channels, including:

  • E4 – Focuses on entertainment and comedy.
  • More4 – Specializes in documentaries, dramas, and lifestyle programming.
  • Film4 – Dedicated to showing films.
  • 4Music – Music and entertainment channel.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD