By Stuart Thomson

The UK’s Channel 4 is to return to free-to-view satellite platform Freesat after an absence of some years after the pair failed to strike mutually acceptable commercial terms.

The public broadcaster’s flagship channel will return to the platform along with music channels Box Hits, Box Chistmas, Kiss, Magic and Kerrang!

The relaunch of Channel 4 on Freesat follows the latter’s acquisition by Digital UK, the operator of the UK free-to-view terrestrial platform Freeview.

Director of Content Partnerships at Freesat, Angie Mee said, “It’s a delight to relaunch these popular channels on Freesat and we’re sure it will please our customers. Channel 4 has always been a great partner with its bouquet of channels, including Film4, E4 and More4, and we look forward to these additional channels joining the line-up at a time of year when families and friends are together.”

Chief Executive Officer at Digital UK, Jonathan Thompson said, “The return of Channel 4 HD and the launch of new music channels on Freesat is a shining example of what we are now able to provide viewers as a joint entity – more and better content.  This early festive gift means Freesat customers will be able to enjoy all the world class programming that Channel 4 produces, as they sit around the TV with their family and friends.”

Distribution and Platform Partnerships Leader, Channel 4 Karla Berry said: “Maximising Channel 4’s reach and impact with viewers through strategic partnerships is key to Channel 4’s Future4 strategy. With Digital UK and Freesat now one organisation we are excited about the future innovations and offerings we will be able to bring to all UK audiences.”