Millions of households across the UK using Freeview have been handed a significant free upgrade, bringing a popular entertainment channel previously exclusive to pay-TV platforms to their screens.
What's New on Freeview?
From this week, Freeview users can now access the TLC channel at no extra cost. This marks a major shift, as TLC was until now only available to subscribers of premium services like Sky and Virgin Media. The channel, known for its blend of reality TV, comedy, and films, launched on Freeview on 13th January 2026.
Viewers can find TLC on channel 12, although a retune of your Freeview box or TV is likely required to receive the new service. Freeview has advised all users to retune their devices to keep their channel line-up and electronic programme guide up to date following broadcaster changes.
Popular Shows and a Channel Reshuffle
The addition of TLC opens up a catalogue of popular programming for Freeview audiences. This includes hit reality series such as Dr Pimple Popper and Say Yes To The Dress, along with sitcoms like The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon, and panel show Mock the Week. Movie fans haven't been forgotten, with blockbusters like Transformers and its sequel also joining the schedule.
To accommodate the new channel, a reshuffle of the Freeview lineup has taken place:
- Quest moves from channel 12 to channel 17.
- Really moves from channel 17 to channel 44.
- The timeshift channel TLC+1 is available on channel 99.
Channels Closing Down
Not all changes are positive, however. The update also sees the removal of several channels from the Freeview platform. HGTV, God TV, and India Today have all closed. This means programmes like My Lottery Dream Home, Celebrity IOU, and Building Alaska are no longer available to Freeview viewers.
This significant update demonstrates the evolving nature of free-to-air television in the UK, offering more choice to viewers without a subscription while also reflecting the competitive pressures that lead to some channels exiting the platform.
