Sky One, the UK's oldest non-terrestrial TV channel, is set to close after 40 years on air. The channel, which launched in 1982, will be replaced by two new channels: Sky Max and Sky Showcase. The changes are expected to take effect from September.
Sky Showcase will take over Sky One's channel slot and will curate highlights from across Sky's portfolio, including shows from Sky Witness, Sky Documentaries, Sky Crime, Sky Nature, Sky Arts, Sky Max, Sky Comedy, Sky History, Sky Kids, SyFy and E!. The Simpsons will continue to air on Sky Showcase.
Sky Max will become the home of Sky's original dramas and entertainment shows, including the rebooted version of Never Mind The Buzzcocks, The Russell Howard Hour, A League Of Their Own and COBRA. Original comedies such as Code 404 and Hitmen Reloaded will move to Sky Comedy.
Sky Atlantic will remain unaffected by the changes, continuing to focus on high-concept original drama. All existing shows will continue, moving to Sky Max or other channels as appropriate.
Zai Bennett, Managing Director of Content Sky UK & ROI, said: 'In this golden age of television, the sheer volume of incredible programming can be overwhelming. From September those looking for the very best of Sky will find it at the top of their programme guide on Sky Showcase, while Sky Max will become the new home of blockbuster entertainment.'
Sky Showcase will be available on channel 106, and Sky Max on channel 113. Virgin Media, BT, and NOW TV customers will also have access to the new channels.
