The standard TV guide for viewers of Sky, Freeview, and Virgin Media is set to offer fewer options for entertainment. Popular children’s channels, Pop and Tiny Pop, will be removed from the lineup starting next month. These channels currently showcase well-liked programs like Pokémon, LEGO Friends, Hello Kitty, Power Players, and Monster High, catering to younger audiences throughout the day and night.
The decision to discontinue these channels is primarily due to their lack of commercial viability. Paul Dunthorne, Managing Director of Narrative, explained that the UK kids’ TV market’s commercial value has significantly decreased over the past decade, leading to the closure of the linear Pop channel by the year’s end.
Despite the channel shutdown, the content will still be accessible through online platforms known as FAST channels. However, viewers will need an internet-enabled television to access these online-only services. Paul Dunthorne mentioned that they will maintain a Pop presence on FAST channels in the UK and internationally, as these platforms offer commercial opportunities.
Additionally, the closure of the channels will result in the Pop Player app and website shutting down. However, there is a silver lining for families with young children as Sky is introducing Disney Jr., a new kids’ TV channel featuring a range of shows for children aged 2-6. This addition to the Sky Kids package will launch on November 13, offering programs like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends, and popular preschool hits such as Bluey, Doc McStuffins, and Sofia the First.
Disney Jr. will be accessible through the Sky Kids pack on various Sky devices and the Sky Go app. Moreover, the content will also be available for streaming on Disney+.