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POP Channels Vanish from Sky & Virgin, Streaming Remains
22 Nov
Summary
- POP and Tiny POP channels cease linear broadcasting on December 31.
- Channels will continue as web streams on internet-connected devices.
- CBBC and CBeebies become the UK's last free-to-air linear kids' channels.
Two cherished children's television channels, POP and Tiny POP, are set to cease their linear broadcasts next month, marking a significant change for young viewers and their families. Beginning December 31, these channels will no longer be accessible through traditional TV providers such as Sky and Virgin Media, nor on standard Freeview.
Narrative Entertainment, the owner of POP, has confirmed the discontinuation of linear broadcasts. However, the channels will persist online. Viewers can continue to watch popular shows like Elmo's World and Dragon Ball Super via web streams accessible through internet-connected Freeview boxes and smart TV platforms, ensuring continued, albeit altered, availability.
This transition underscores a broader trend in media consumption, with streaming services like YouTube rapidly gaining popularity among younger demographics. The closure leaves CBBC and CBeebies as the UK's only remaining free-to-air linear children's channels, following the earlier shutdown of CITV in September 2023.
