The BBC has confirmed the launch date for the return of BBC Three as a linear channel for the first time in six years.
Since 2016 the youth-skewing channel has been available only through online platforms, but the increasing popularity of its programmes shown within branded blocks on the BBC’s other channels resulted in a change of heart.
BBC Three will return on February 1, 2022 and will broadcast from 7pm each evening. It has secured distribution on Freeview, Sky, Virgin and Freesat, and will continue on BBC iPlayer.
The launch night will feature programmes including RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and Normal People. Later in the week, there will be coverage of the semi-final of the Africa Cup of Nations.
