TVCatchUp says it has been forced to withdraw content from the UK’s public broadcasters following a series of court actions. It has pulled channels from ITV and Channel 5, replacing its own video with a link to the broadcasters’ websites.
The move follows a High Court ruling issued last week, following a motion brought by ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5. “This result will help protect the substantial investment broadcasters make in content and is a clear message to those who seek to infringe our copyright or use our content in an illegal capacity,” the broadcasters said in a statement.
TVCatchUp, which has 9.35 million users, says it hopes to work with the broadcasters concerned to restore any channels that have been affected. “We want to work together with all the broadcasters on acceptable terms, as our partners in bringing you the best selection of shows online, and to continue to deliver their content to the widest possible audience.”
In August TVCatchup reached a retransmission agreement with Welsh broadcaster S4C.