Millions of Freeview viewers across the UK have received a significant free upgrade to their television service, bringing a popular channel previously exclusive to pay-TV platforms onto the free-to-air platform.
What's New on Freeview?
From this week, the entertainment channel TLC is now available to all Freeview users at no extra cost. This marks a major shift, as TLC was until now only accessible to subscribers of premium services like Sky and Virgin Media. The channel, known for its compelling reality television, has launched on Freeview channel 12.
To access the new content, some households may need to retune their televisions or set-top boxes. The changes officially began on 13th January 2026. Freeview has advised viewers to perform a retune to update their channel list and electronic programme guide to ensure they don't miss out.
What Can You Watch on TLC?
The addition of TLC brings a wealth of new programming to Freeview's lineup. Fans can now enjoy hit reality series such as Dr Pimple Popper and Say Yes To The Dress without a subscription. Furthermore, the channel's expanded offering includes popular sitcoms and blockbuster films.
Viewers can look forward to catching episodes of The Big Bang Theory, Mock the Week, and Young Sheldon. Movie enthusiasts also benefit, with major titles like Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen joining the schedule. A timeshift channel, TLC+1, is also available on channel 99.
Channel Reshuffle and Closures
This update has triggered a reshuffle of several existing channels to accommodate the new arrival. Quest has moved from channel 12 to channel 17, making room for TLC. Meanwhile, Really has been relocated from channel 17 to channel 44.
Not all the news is positive, however. The upgrade coincides with the closure of several channels on the Freeview platform. HGTV, God TV, and India Today have all been removed. This means programmes like My Lottery Dream Home, Celebrity IOU, and Building Alaska are no longer available via Freeview.
This strategic move by Freeview enhances its competitive edge, offering more premium-style content to users who rely on free terrestrial television. It represents a notable expansion of choice for UK households without the need for a monthly contract.
