Major Broadcast Shake-Up: Sky and Virgin Media Revamp Channel Line-Ups
In a significant development for television viewers across the UK, Sky and Virgin Media have confirmed a series of major changes to their channel line-ups, set to take effect throughout February 2026. The alterations represent one of the most substantial reshuffles in recent broadcasting history, designed to streamline the viewing experience for millions of subscribers.
Key Channel Closures and the Return of a Favourite
The most notable changes involve the closure of two established channels. Sky Showcase and Sky Max will both be discontinued in February, making way for the highly anticipated return of a classic brand. Sky One is set to make its comeback on channel 106 from Tuesday, 24th February 2026. This move marks a strategic shift for Sky, bringing a familiar flagship channel back to a prominent position in the electronic programme guide.
A Wave of Temporary Rebrands and Reversions
Alongside the main channel changes, viewers will notice several temporary rebrands and reversions designed around seasonal themes. According to official announcements, the adjustments aim to make it "easier than ever" for audiences to find their favourite content.
- Nick SpongeBob (found on Satellite 605 and Sky Glass 206) will revert to its original Nicktoons branding.
- Sky Comedy (Satellite 308 / Sky Glass 308) will undergo a temporary transformation into Groundhog Day HD.
- Sky Feel Good (Satellite 302 / Sky Glass 302) is being temporarily renamed as SkyValentineHD for the period.
- In a separate switch, Sky Spider-Man (Satellite 307 / Sky Glass 307) will revert back to Sky Action HD.
- Following its temporary stint, the Groundhog Day channel (Satellite 308 / Sky Glass 308) will revert back to being Sky Comedy HD.
Strategic Vision Behind the Changes
Carli Kerr, Managing Director of Sky TV and NOW, explained the rationale behind the comprehensive reshuffle. "Our goal is to make it easier than ever for Sky TV customers to find and enjoy the shows they love," she stated. The relaunched Sky One channel will play a central role in this strategy, also serving as the broadcast home for the new Saturday Night Live UK series, which is scheduled to launch later in the year.
Both Sky and Virgin Media have provided advance notice of these changes to ensure subscribers are well-informed and can navigate the new line-up with ease when the updates take effect later this month.
