BBC Three finally returning as an actual channel in 2022

BBC Three is finally returning as a broadcast channel in January 2022 in a bid to reach wider audiences.

The corporation has confirmed that BBC Three will soon be back on television screens following huge successes with shows such as Killing Eve and Normal People.

‘We believe in backing success and, having committed to double the investment on BBC Three commissions over the next two years, we want to showcase that content to a wider audience,’ a spokesperson said.

‘Using both a broadcast channel and BBC iPlayer in tandem will help to grow our offer and deliver more value to younger audiences.’

BBC Three ceased operations in 2016 and was replaced by an online-only version available via the iPlayer.

It’s expected to start rebroadcasting next year subject to Ofcom approval.

Charlotte Moore, Chief Content Officer said : ‘BBC Three is a BBC success story, backing creativity, new talent and brave ideas has resulted in hit after hit, from Fleabag and Man Like Mobeen, Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK and Jesy Nelson’s Odd One Out, to Normal People and This Country. 

‘The BBC needs to back success and make sure its programmes reach as many young people as possible wherever they live in the UK. 

‘So regardless of the debates about the past, we want to give BBC Three its own broadcast channel again.’

She concluded: ‘It has exciting, ground breaking content that deserves the widest possible audience and using iPlayer alongside a broadcast channel will deliver the most value.’

BBC Three will return as a broadcast channel in January 22.

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