Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

ITV

ITV is the United Kingdom's oldest commercial public service television network, launched on 22 September 1955 as the first rival to the state-owned British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), initially broadcasting in the London area through a system of regional franchises awarded under the Television Act 1954. The network was established to provide diverse programming including entertainment, news, drama, and regional content, funded primarily through advertising while adhering to public service obligations regulated by bodies like the Independent Television Authority (later the Independent Broadcasting Authority). By 1963, ITV had expanded to cover all regions of the UK, with 15 franchise holders producing and sharing content across a unified schedule known as Channel 3. Over its history, ITV has evolved through several franchise rounds, with significant changes in 1968 introducing new companies like and , and further consolidations in the and that reduced the number of independent operators. In 2004, major broadcasters and Carlton merged to form , which today owns and operates 13 of the 15 regional licences that make up the network, with licences renewed in 2024 for a further ten years until 2034, making it the UK's largest commercial broadcaster and broadcast video on demand (BVOD) streamer. 's operations are divided into , a global content production and distribution arm with over 60 labels across 13 countries and a library of 95,000 hours of programming, and ITV Media & Entertainment, which manages linear channels and the ad-funded streaming service (launched in 2022 as a rebrand of ITV Hub). The network delivers a wide range of genres, from flagship news via to popular entertainment like (broadcast since 1960) and I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, alongside sports coverage and factual programming, reaching 33 million viewers weekly. ITV has introduced digital channels such as , , and since 1998, adapting to multi-platform viewing while maintaining its role in national events and regional representation. Despite early financial struggles in the late , resolved through program-sharing and cost efficiencies, ITV became highly profitable by 1958 and remains a key pillar of the UK's landscape.

Overview of the ITV Network

Establishment and purpose

The Independent Television (ITV) network was established by the Television Act 1954, which received on 30 July 1954 and authorized the creation of a commercial television service to complement the BBC's public-service . The Act formed the Independent Television Authority (ITA) as a public corporation to oversee the new network for an initial period of ten years, with the primary purpose of introducing advertising-funded broadcasting to promote competition, diversity, and high-quality programming while safeguarding public interests. This initiative aimed to break the BBC's dominance by offering an alternative funded through commercial means, yet regulated to prevent excesses associated with unchecked advertising. ITV launched on 22 September 1955 as the United Kingdom's first commercial television service, beginning with transmissions in the London region by at 7:15 pm. The inaugural broadcast included an introductory film and a gala performance, followed by the nation's first for Gibbs SR at 8:12 pm, underscoring the network's commercial foundation. Under ITA supervision, the service emphasized a balance between profitability and duties, requiring programs to uphold standards of decency, taste, impartiality, accuracy, and balance, alongside a suitable proportion of educational and British-produced content. Coverage expanded regionally from in 1955, with services rolling out to the and the North in 1956, in 1957, the South and in 1958, and in 1959, the Southwest and Borders in 1961, and completing nationwide reach in 1962 with launches in west and . This phased rollout reflected the founding of a federated structure to serve both national unity and local diversity, ensuring programming addressed varied audiences while fulfilling obligations to inform, educate, and entertain without compromising commercial viability.

Network composition

The ITV network operates through a regional franchise system under Channel 3 licences regulated by , comprising 15 distinct geographical areas across , southern and northern , , the , the Isle of Man, and . ITV plc holds 13 of these licences, including major regions such as (), ( and ), and UTV (, acquired by in 2016), enabling unified national branding while supporting local production. The remaining two licences in central and northern are held independently by STV Group plc, which operates as STV Central and STV North, maintaining separate scheduling and regional focus. These franchises were renewed by for a further 10-year period starting January 1, 2025, ensuring continuity of public service obligations like regional news and programming quotas. Complementing the core ITV channel (branded as ITV1 in most regions), the network includes a portfolio of digital channels targeting diverse audiences. focuses on youth-oriented entertainment, featuring reality shows, comedy, and drama aimed at younger viewers. specializes in classic programming, including repeats of popular British series and films from ITV's archives. caters to sports and men's interests, with live events, motoring content, and action-oriented shows. emphasizes lifestyle topics, such as fashion, beauty, and celebrity-driven programming for women. Children's content, previously broadcast on the dedicated channel, was integrated into the streaming platform following CITV's closure on September 1, 2023, with limited slots now on ITV2's breakfast schedule. ITVX, launched on December 8, 2022, serves as the network's unified streaming service, replacing the ITV Hub and providing free ad-supported access to live broadcasts, catch-up episodes, and original content across all ITV channels. By 2025, has expanded to include over 10,000 hours of on-demand programming, with enhanced personalization and integration of regional variations, marking a shift toward hybrid linear and digital delivery. The franchises interconnect through a networked schedule where national programming from forms the backbone, allowing regional opt-outs for localized content such as bulletins tailored to specific areas—typically 15-30 minutes daily in each , fulfilling Ofcom-mandated quotas for regional output. This structure balances unity with locality, as opt-outs interrupt the national feed during designated slots, often for evening . Signals are distributed primarily via (DTT) through Freeview, reaching over 98% of households, and satellite platforms like and , where HD transmission became standard after the phase-out of standard-definition satellite feeds in October 2024. Cable and IP-based delivery further extend availability, ensuring seamless integration of regional and national elements across platforms.

Historical development

Early years (1955-1970s)

Following its launch on 22 September 1955, ITV rapidly expanded its transmission network under the oversight of the Independent Television Authority (ITA), achieving coverage of approximately 95% of the UK population by the end of 1962 through the addition of regional stations such as those in Wales, the Channel Islands, and West Ulster. This growth marked a significant milestone in providing commercial television to nearly the entire nation, building on initial broadcasts limited to the London area. Early operations faced technical challenges, including signal interference and inconsistent in rural areas due to the limitations of VHF transmission technology and overlapping regional signals. These issues were compounded by industrial disputes, most notably the 1968 technicians' strike initiated by the Association of Cinematograph, Television and Allied Technicians (ACTT), which stemmed from wage disputes amid 4.69% inflation and unequal contract terms across companies, leading to widespread blackouts and the use of non-union staff for limited emergency programming from 29 July to 18 August. Additionally, the launch of on 20 April 1964 introduced heightened competition, as the new public channel aimed to offer more serious programming in contrast to ITV's entertainment focus, prompting ITV to refine its scheduling to retain viewers. ITV's programming during this period established its reputation for mass-appeal content, with the debut of the Coronation Street on 9 December 1960 exemplifying the rise of relatable, working-class dramas that drew millions of viewers and became a cultural staple. Variety shows like Take Your Pick (1955) and Sunday Night at the London Palladium further popularized , reflecting and shaping post-war British leisure habits by blending comedy, music, and audience participation to capture a broad demographic. By the late , ITV had secured a dominant audience share, often exceeding 70% in areas with choice, surpassing the through its emphasis on accessible, escapist fare. Regulatory developments reinforced ITV's structure and content standards, with the ITA enforcing requirements for high-quality, predominantly British-made programming to ensure cultural relevance and limit imported content. Franchise renewals between 1963 and 1967, prompted by the Television Act 1963, saw the ITA review and reaward contracts—such as retaining for London weekdays while introducing for weekends—based on companies' performance in programming and financial viability, thereby stabilizing the regional network amid growing competition. Advancements continued with the introduction of color broadcasting on 15 November 1969, aligning ITV with BBC1 to enhance visual appeal and viewer engagement across much of the network.

Reforms and changes (1980s-1990s)

The marked a period of significant deregulation for ITV under the Conservative government led by , influenced by broader efforts to reduce state intervention in industries. The Broadcasting Act 1981 consolidated previous legislation and established the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) with expanded powers, while introducing eight-year licences for ITV franchises to replace the previous "beauty parade" renewal process, aiming to inject stability and competition. This act also permitted limited increases in advertising minutes per hour on ITV, from six to eight, to boost commercial revenues amid rising costs. Additionally, it relaxed some ownership restrictions, paving the way for dual holdings in certain media sectors, though full came later. A key outcome of the 1981 Act was the launch of on November 2, 1982, as a complementary public-service broadcaster distinct from ITV. Designed to cater to underrepresented audiences with innovative and minority-interest programming, operated as a publisher commissioning content from independent producers, breaking the BBC-ITV duopoly that had dominated production. Funded initially through a levy on ITV companies' advertising revenues—equivalent to about 15-20% of their income— relieved ITV of direct production burdens but strained its finances, leading to ITV's opposition and nicknames like "Channel Bore" in industry critiques. By the mid-1980s, had captured around 10% of the TV audience, indirectly pressuring ITV to diversify its output. The Broadcasting Act 1990 accelerated commercialization by mandating competitive blind bidding for ITV's 16 regional franchises, to be awarded to the highest cash bidder meeting a "quality threshold" set by the newly formed Independent Television Commission (ITC). This franchise round, announced in 1991 with new licences starting January 1, 1993, destabilized the network as incumbents faced aggressive challengers, resulting in four major losses: Thames Television (London weekday) to Carlton Communications, TVS (South and South East) to Meridian Broadcasting, TV South West to Westcountry, and TV-am (breakfast) to GMTV. TVS's £59.8 million annual bid—the highest overall—was rejected due to financial viability concerns despite passing the quality test, leading to the company's dissolution and sale of its assets and studios to MAI (Media Assets Investments) in 1993 for redevelopment. Meanwhile, Carlton emerged as a dominant force by securing the lucrative London franchise, controlling 30% of ITV advertising revenues by 1995, while Granada Television retained its North West licence and began expansions, acquiring London Weekend Television (LWT) in 1994 for £775 million. Technological advancements during this era extended ITV's reach beyond terrestrial broadcasting. Teletext services, pioneered with on ITV in the late 1970s, expanded in the 1980s to include interactive features like , updates, and classified ads, with usage growing as affordable decoder-equipped TVs proliferated—reaching over a million sets by 1984. Early systems emerged in the mid-1980s, with ITV franchises like and Thames investing in local networks to distribute signals and additional channels, while satellite broadcasting gained traction after Sky's 1989 launch, challenging ITV's . ITV's audience share peaked at 44% in 1990, reflecting its strong position before multichannel competition eroded it to 33% by 1997. The 1991-1993 franchise process, dubbed the "franchise wars," sparked widespread over bid pricing and . Incumbents like Television retained their licences with a high £37.7 million annual commitment—nearly double some rivals—amid accusations that the favored established players despite the act's competitive intent, leading to financial strains and job cuts across the sector. 's retention, approved in October 1991, highlighted flaws in the "highest bidder" rule, as the disqualified bids deemed unrealistically high to protect programming quality, fueling debates in about the auction's fairness and long-term impact on regional diversity.

Modernization (2000s-2025)

In the early , ITV underwent significant to streamline its operations and establish a more unified national presence. The formation of in 2004 resulted from the merger between and , which together controlled 11 of the 15 regional franchises and created a single entity overseeing the majority of the network's broadcasting activities. This merger aimed to achieve cost savings of £100 million annually through efficiencies in programming and administration. By 2009, further solidified its control over morning broadcasting by acquiring the remaining 25% stake in from for £22.25 million, granting full ownership of the franchise and enhancing the network's cohesive identity across dayparts. The transition to marked a pivotal modernization effort during this period. The UK's analog-to-digital switchover, which began in , reached completion on October 24, 2012, with the final analog signals switched off in , allowing ITV to fully embrace digital transmission nationwide. This shift enabled high-definition () broadcasting for ITV channels, starting with ITV HD in 2006 and expanding post-switchover, as well as participation in digital multiplex operations that supported additional services like interactive features and more channel capacity. The digital infrastructure improved signal quality and accessibility, positioning ITV to compete in a multi-channel environment. Entering the , ITV prioritized digital streaming to adapt to evolving viewer habits and on-demand consumption. The ITV Hub launched on November 23, 2015, as an upgraded video-on-demand platform replacing the earlier ITV Player, offering catch-up content and to over 30 million registered users by 2019. In 2022, the service rebranded to on December 8, introducing a free ad-supported tier for broad access alongside a premium subscription model for ad-free viewing and exclusive content, thereby merging linear and streaming offerings under a unified . As of 2025, ITV continued to mark key milestones while addressing environmental responsibilities. The network celebrated its 70th anniversary on September 22, 2025, with reflections on its and announcements of new programming, commemorating the original launch of Independent Television in 1955. Concurrently, ITV advanced efforts, committing to net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 through science-based targets, including a 46% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 from a 2019 baseline and initiatives to minimize production footprints. These steps underscored ITV's evolution toward sustainable, digitally integrated amid contemporary challenges.

Programming

Drama and entertainment

ITV's drama output has long been a cornerstone of its programming, establishing the network as a leader in British television storytelling through enduring soap operas and period dramas. The flagship soap , which premiered on 9 December 1960, remains the world's longest-running television soap opera, having broadcast over 11,000 episodes by late 2025. Its depiction of working-class life in the fictional has captivated generations, averaging around four million viewers per episode in recent years. Complementing this is , launched on 16 October 1972, which focuses on rural life and has aired more than 10,000 episodes, evolving from a thrice-weekly format to a staple of evening schedules. These series exemplify ITV's commitment to serialized drama, fostering deep audience engagement and cultural resonance in the UK. In the realm of prestige drama, ITV achieved global acclaim with , a period piece set in the early that aired from 26 September 2010 to 25 December 2015 across six seasons. The series, chronicling the lives of an aristocratic family and their servants, became an international phenomenon, drawing over 120 million viewers worldwide and spawning feature films. Its success highlighted ITV's ability to blend high production values with compelling narratives, influencing a resurgence in costume dramas exported globally. ITV's entertainment programming emphasizes light-hearted, interactive formats that have dominated ratings and popularized reality television in the UK. The reality survival show I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, debuting on 25 August 2002, pairs celebrities with challenging bush Tucker Trials in Australia, consistently topping charts with peak audiences exceeding 12 million. Talent competitions like Britain's Got Talent, which launched on 9 June 2007, showcase diverse acts judged by a panel including Simon Cowell, launching careers such as Susan Boyle's while achieving viewership highs of over 19 million for its finale. Game shows, including The Chase—premiering on 29 June 2009—pit contestants against trivia experts known as "Chasers," delivering fast-paced quizzes that attract up to 5 million viewers daily. These formats underscore ITV's role in accessible, family-oriented entertainment that drives broad cultural participation. The network's production model balances in-house capabilities with independent commissions to meet regulatory requirements, ensuring diversity and innovation in content creation. ITV must commission at least 25% of its qualifying programming hours from independent producers, as mandated by the Communications Act 2003. Additionally, enforces a 65% quota for original content during peak viewing hours (6-10:30 p.m. on weekdays) across ITV's main channels, with the majority being UK-originated to prioritize domestic stories and talent. This hybrid approach allows ITV to produce iconic series internally while leveraging external creativity for fresh perspectives. ITV's drama and entertainment contributions have garnered significant recognition, including multiple BAFTA Television Awards in the 2020s that affirm its excellence and impact. For instance, the 2025 BAFTAs saw ITV's Mr Bates vs The Post Office win the Limited Drama category, alongside a Special Award for the network's commissioning of the series, highlighting its role in addressing real-world injustices through compelling narratives. Overall, ITV has secured over 20 BAFTA wins for drama categories since 2020, spanning soaps, limited series, and scripted content. Through ITV Studios, the network's production arm, these programs fuel the British TV export market, contributing to the UK's record £1.85 billion in television sales abroad during 2022-23, with hits like Downton Abbey and entertainment formats licensed internationally.

News, sport, and factual content

ITV's news services form a cornerstone of its non-fiction programming, with the Independent Television News (ITN) producing the network's national and international coverage. The flagship programme, ITV News at Ten, launched on 3 July 1967 as a 30-minute evening bulletin, introduced a more in-depth format to British television news at the time. This programme airs weekdays at 10:00 pm and remains a key source for breaking stories, analysis, and interviews. Complementing national news, ITV delivers localised reporting through a network of regional programmes, which were consolidated from 17 to nine main regions in 2009 to streamline operations while maintaining community-focused journalism across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Additionally, Good Morning Britain, ITV's weekday breakfast news and current affairs show, debuted on 28 April 2014, blending headlines, interviews, and lifestyle segments from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. In sports broadcasting, ITV holds significant rights to major UK events, emphasising live coverage and highlights to engage audiences. ITV shared exclusive free-to-air rights to the FA Cup with the BBC from 2021 to 2025, marking the first joint broadcast of the competition since 1988. ITV co-broadcasts the Guinness Six Nations rugby championship alongside the BBC under a four-year deal extending to , providing live matches, analysis, and highlights that draw millions of viewers annually. Horse racing features prominently, with ITV securing exclusive coverage of major races like the Grand National through a new agreement running until the end of 2030. For international events, ITV partners with the BBC to air live fixtures and highlights from the , including the 2026 and 2030 tournaments across TV, audio, and digital platforms. Factual programming on ITV emphasises and educational content, particularly through long-standing documentary strands. The Tonight programme, ITV's primetime series focusing on social issues, health, and consumer stories, has been a staple since its revival in 1999, building on earlier traditions of in-depth reporting. Wildlife documentaries represent another key area, with the Survival series—produced by Anglia Television—debuting on 1 February 1961 as one of the earliest and most enduring nature programmes on British television, exploring animal behaviour and conservation over hundreds of episodes. These series often highlight environmental challenges and human impacts on ecosystems. ITV's news and factual output adheres to strict regulatory standards, governed by Ofcom's Broadcasting Code Section 5, which mandates due and accuracy in news to ensure balanced on controversial subjects. The dedicated news division, encompassing and regional teams, employs between 200 and 500 staff to support round-the-clock operations and investigative work.

Business and regulation

Ownership and corporate structure

ITV plc was formed in February 2004 through the merger of and plc, consolidating the ownership of most ITV regional franchises in under a single entity. The company is listed on the London Stock Exchange as a FTSE constituent. As of 31 December 2024, employed 6,133 people across its operations. The corporate structure centers on two primary divisions: and Media & Entertainment. serves as the production arm, responsible for creating and distributing content, accounting for nearly 50% of the group's total revenue in the first half of 2025. In the first half of 2025, revenue increased 3% to £893 million, comprising 48% of group revenue. It operates through over 60 production labels in 13 countries and generates international sales in more than 100 territories. The Media & Entertainment division, encompassing ITV Broadcasting, manages the linear channels, streaming platform , and related broadcasting activities. previously held a 50% stake in International, a streaming with launched in 2017, but sold its interest to in March 2024 for £255 million. ITV plc fully owns the UTV franchise in following its £100 million acquisition in February 2016, integrating it into the national network while maintaining regional programming. In Scotland, STV Group plc operates as an independent licensee for the central and northern regions, having established its autonomy through affiliation agreements with since the mid-2000s. Governance is overseen by a chaired by Andrew Cosslett, with serving as chief executive since January 2018. The shareholder base is dominated by institutional investors, including , which reduced its stake from 10% to 5% in October 2025 through a sale of shares worth £135 million.

Financial performance and regulation

ITV's primary revenue streams consist of advertising, content production through ITV Studios, and digital services. In 2024, advertising accounted for 44% of total revenue, generating £1.82 billion, driven by a 2% increase in total advertising revenue amid market recovery. ITV Studios contributed 49% or £2.04 billion, though this represented a 6% decline year-over-year due to the 2023 U.S. actors' and writers' strikes. Digital revenues, including advertising and subscriptions via ITVX, made up 13% at £556 million, reflecting a 12% rise and underscoring diversification efforts. Overall, group revenue totaled £4.14 billion, down 3% from 2023. In Q1 2025, returned to growth following the U.S. strikes' impact, with up 1% to £386 million and external revenue up 20%. Group total external revenue rose 4% to £756 million, with projections for strong full-year expansion. Since 2003, ITV has been regulated by , which succeeded the Independent Television Commission () and the Independent Television Authority (ITA), ensuring compliance with public service broadcasting obligations. enforces quotas such as 35% of ITV's network programming hours and budget produced outside , along with regional production requirements to support local content creation across the nations and English regions. Additionally, is strictly limited, with an average of no more than 7 minutes of commercials per clock hour during peak viewing times and prohibitions on certain product placements to protect viewers. ITV's financial performance has shown resilience post-2020, when caused a sharp advertising slump, with revenues dropping significantly due to reduced consumer spending. Recovery began in 2021, with advertising up 68% year-on-year by mid-year, fueled by eased restrictions and major events like Euro 2020. By 2024, the company achieved adjusted EBITA of £542 million, up 11%, despite overall revenue pressures. In November 2025, ITV announced preliminary discussions to sell its Media and Entertainment division—including linear channels and —to Comcast-owned for around £1.6 billion, amid industry shifts toward streaming dominance and declining linear viewership. This potential deal, valued at approximately $2.15 billion, aims to refocus ITV on its high-growth Studios arm while navigating regulatory scrutiny from and the .

Other meanings of ITV

Interactive and digital television (iTV)

Interactive television (iTV), also known as interactive TV, refers to technologies that enable viewers to engage with television content in real-time using devices like remote controls, set-top boxes, or apps, allowing actions such as in shows, accessing additional , , or over broadcast or signals. This concept emerged prominently in the , with early systems like Liberate Technologies' software platform, which powered interactive services for providers by enabling overlays on video streams for enhanced viewer participation. Pioneering efforts in that decade included trials by companies like and Communications, which deployed Liberate's iTV system to support features like and browsing on TV screens. In the United Kingdom, a key implementation was the Red Button service, launched by the in 2004 as an evolution of the earlier system, providing interactive enhancements such as additional video clips, quizzes, and live event updates accessible via . This service expanded across public broadcasters, allowing viewers to interact with programming like sports and news through simple remote navigation. In the United States, partnered with America Online in 2000 to roll out interactive TV features, including chat rooms and content navigation, marking one of the first large-scale satellite-based pilots aimed at blending internet capabilities with broadcast TV. Another example was 's Game Lounge, introduced in 2007, which offered pay-per-play interactive gaming directly through set-top boxes. Apple's iTV project, codenamed in the mid-, exemplified early digital convergence efforts; unveiled in 2006 and rebranded as upon its 2007 launch due to trademark conflicts, it focused on and basic like content rental via a set-top device connected to . Globally, services like DIRECTV's interactive ads in the allowed viewers to respond to commercials with remote inputs for more information or purchases. The evolution of iTV has shifted from broadcast overlay systems to app-based interactivity on smart TVs and streaming platforms, where features like on-demand voting, personalized recommendations, and social sharing dominate. Platforms such as integrate interactive elements, including voice-controlled searches and pop-up ads that enable direct engagement with content or during viewing. This transition has driven market expansion, with the global interactive streaming segment projected to reach USD 38.31 billion in 2025, fueled by advancements in and AI-driven personalization.

Acronyms in other fields

In military contexts, refers to the Improved TOW Vehicle, a armored platform introduced in 1979 based on the M113 chassis and designed to carry a twin TOW anti-tank missile launcher for support. Another military usage is the Internally Transportable Vehicle, a lightweight strike vehicle developed for the Corps to enable rapid deployment via aircraft like the V-22 , with variants such as the achieving initial operational capability in 2009. In medical applications, particularly radiotherapy, ITV stands for Internal Target Volume, a concept defined in the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU) Report 62 from 1999 to account for physiological movements of tumors, such as respiratory motion, by expanding the clinical target volume with internal margins. Within technology fields, ITV denotes Industrial Television, referring to closed-circuit television systems employed in factories and industrial settings since the postwar era to monitor production lines, enhance worker oversight, and support operational efficiency without public broadcasting. Separately, ITV means Instructional Television, a method of delivering educational content through television for distance learning, as utilized in models like those of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in the United States to supplement classroom instruction. In automotive contexts, particularly in Spain, ITV stands for Inspección Técnica de Vehículos, the mandatory periodic roadworthiness test for vehicles to ensure safety, emissions compliance, and mechanical integrity; vehicles aged 4-10 years require testing every two years, and those over 10 years annually. In other domains, ITV represented Independent Television, the original name for what became Australia's Network Ten during its formation in the 1960s, when affiliated stations like TEN-10 Sydney launched under the Independent Television System banner before rebranding to the 0-10 Network in 1970.

References

  1. [1]
    70 years of ITV: the early days of the UK's first commercial channel
    Sep 22, 2025 · On the evening of 22 September ITV started its inaugural broadcast, with Associated-Rediffusion and ATV sharing the evening for this special ...
  2. [2]
    History of British television: Timeline, 1926–2017
    Apr 7, 2011 · 22 September 1955: Commercial television (ITV) starts broadcasting in the London area. 21 July 1955: BBC TV Northern Ireland transmitter opens. ...
  3. [3]
    ITV history 1955-1968 - London - TV Studio History
    ITV started with four companies building studios, producing diverse content, and faced initial financial struggles, leading to the creation of the network. ...
  4. [4]
    What we do - ITV plc
    ITV is the UK's largest commercial broadcaster and BVOD* streamer, delivering unrivalled audience scale and reach.
  5. [5]
    [PDF] Some Comments on the British Television Act, 1954
    INDEPENDENT TELEVISION AUTHORITY. A. Functions. Section i of the Act provides for creation of the Independent Television Authority and lays down its functions ...
  6. [6]
    Timeline: ITV 1955-today | Media business - The Guardian
    Oct 7, 2003 · The rollout of ITV around the country gathers pace, with ATV Midlands launching a weekday service on February 17 and ABC beginning transmission ...
  7. [7]
    22 September 1955: ITV's inaugural broadcast - MoneyWeek
    Sep 22, 2020 · On this day in 1955 at 7.15pm, Associated-Rediffusion made ITV's first television broadcast, followed an hour later by Britain's first TV advert.
  8. [8]
    Regulating Channel 3 - Ofcom
    Information about how we regulate Channel 3 in the UK, including our latest reports and reviews. There are 15 national and regional Channel 3 licences.<|separator|>
  9. [9]
    New ten-year public service broadcast licences for Channel 3 and ...
    Sep 12, 2024 · Ofcom has published the renewed broadcast licences for ITV, STV and Channel 5. The Channel 3 and Channel 5 licences will run for the next 10 ...
  10. [10]
    ITV to Acquire Northern Ireland Partner's TV Business for $155M
    Oct 19, 2015 · UTV Media owns the ITV franchise for Northern Ireland and has also launched a network in the Republic of Ireland.
  11. [11]
    ITV plc Company Profile - GlobalData
    ITV's channels and ITV Hub include ITV2, ITV3, ITV4, CITV, and ITVBe. It delivers content through linear television broadcasting and on demand via the ITV ...
  12. [12]
    ITV announces closure of CITV in favour of streaming-only children's ...
    Mar 10, 2023 · ITV announces closure of CITV in favour of streaming-only children's content. Art Attack, The Sooty Show and Captain Pugwash are among CITV's most iconic shows.
  13. [13]
    ITV reduces kids TV slot in ITV2 revamp - RXTV
    Jun 3, 2025 · ITV's remaining children's output was banished to ITV2's breakfast schedule following the closure of the CITV Channel in 2023. At the time, ITV ...
  14. [14]
    ITVX the UK's freshest streaming service to launch on 8th December
    Nov 7, 2022 · On 8th December ITVX will launch with over 250 feature films, with a thousand films to be made available to stream each year. Films available ...
  15. [15]
    [PDF] 1 ITV'S PROPOSALS FOR NATIONS AND REGIONS NEWS ... - Ofcom
    ITV proposes to move to more locally targeted services, reinstating sub-regionality, with reduced bulletins outside 6pm, and a 'wrapper' of non-regulated ...
  16. [16]
    ITV to switch off SD satellite distribution - Broadband TV News
    Sep 16, 2024 · As a result, ITV will switch off SD satellite distribution from October 2024. Households with an SD-only satellite set-top box will need to ...
  17. [17]
    [PDF] Future of TV Distribution - GOV.UK
    Most DTT users watched popular, public service broadcasting channels such as those provided by the BBC,. ITV and Channel 4. However, some participants enjoyed ...
  18. [18]
    The Authority's Stations: introduction - ITA stations in 1962
    May 5, 2023 · The first part of a weekly series on the ITV transmitters in 1962. ... 1962: Wales (W.&N), Channel Islands, West Ulster. The spread of ...
  19. [19]
    Is my problem reception or interference? | Help receiving TV and radio
    Loose cables, incorrectly tuned televisions or set-top boxes and faulty aerials are the most common reasons for reception problems. We have installation guides ...Missing: early | Show results with:early
  20. [20]
    Tonight's Independent Television… in 1968 - Transdiffusion
    Aug 8, 2018 · In 1968, ITV faced strikes, leading to blank screens, blacked out ads, and a scratch service using non-union staff and pre-recorded material.
  21. [21]
    how the Beeb's second channel survived its disastrous opening night
    Apr 16, 2014 · After a first night – in April 1964 – plagued by a power cut, BBC Two took a few years to find its feet before going on to golden years of innovative ...Missing: launch competition
  22. [22]
    9 December 1960: Coronation Street is first broadcast - MoneyWeek
    Dec 8, 2020 · Nonetheless, they were persuaded to make 13 pilot episodes, the first of which was aired on 9 December 1960 and it was performed live. Latest ...<|separator|>
  23. [23]
    Hard to believe it happened! 70 unforgettable (and unforgivable ...
    Sep 22, 2025 · Hard to believe it happened! 70 unforgettable (and unforgivable) shows from 70 years of ITV · 1955 – Take Your Pick! · 1956 – The Outsider · 1957 – ...
  24. [24]
    The Great TV War - BBC - Transdiffusion Broadcasting System
    Jan 4, 2021 · If the BBC does just maintain life in its body in the 1960's with a million or two regular viewers, while ITV has between 15-20 million, ...Missing: surpasses | Show results with:surpasses
  25. [25]
    The History of ITV - Part 6
    Companies were on contracts with the ITA that had to be renewed and therefore could be challenged. The first round of these franchise renewals were due in 1964.
  26. [26]
    https://transdiffusion.org/2021/01/04/the-great-tv-war/
  27. [27]
    TELEVISION BILL (Hansard, 25 February 1963) - API Parliament UK
    Either the I.T.A. can decide which is the best programme for broadcasting or it can take a general decision on the past record of different companies. Which of ...
  28. [28]
    As ITV in colour turns 50, hundreds still watch in black-and-white
    Nov 15, 2019 · By Andy Bevan. On Saturday 15th November 1969, much of ITV began broadcasting in colour. In the Midlands, the first colour programme on what ...
  29. [29]
    Business | ITV: A third force in broadcasting - BBC NEWS
    Feb 2, 2004 · As the shares in ITV plc, formed by the merger of Carlton Communications Group and Granada, start trading in London, BBC News Online asks ...
  30. [30]
    Business | ITV on track for merger cost cuts - BBC NEWS
    Mar 3, 2004 · The newly formed commercial broadcaster says it is on target to achieve cuts of £100m following the merger of Granada and Carlton.
  31. [31]
    ITV takes full control of breakfast TV broadcaster GMTV - The Guardian
    Nov 26, 2009 · ITV has taken full control of the breakfast TV broadcaster GMTV, buying the 25% share it did not already own from Disney for £22.25m.
  32. [32]
    Analogue television disappears from UK airwaves | Digital switchover
    Oct 23, 2012 · 76 years of television history came to an end at midnight on Wednesday when the analogue TV signal was switched off in Northern Ireland.
  33. [33]
    Digital Switchover Completed | ITV News London
    The historic switch from analogue to digital television is being celebrated this evening with a special light show.
  34. [34]
    70 Years of Making What Matters | Press Centre - ITVX
    Sep 18, 2025 · As ITV looks ahead to the future and a must-watch season of new programming this autumn, on September 22nd we will take time to reflect and ...
  35. [35]
    ITV commits to Net Zero carbon emissions by 2030 | Press Centre
    Sep 14, 2020 · ITV will become a Net Zero carbon business by 2030, as part of its ongoing commitment to creating the biggest shows with the smallest footprint.
  36. [36]
    Coronation Street episodes
    Since 9th December 1960, up to and including the episodes transmitted on 7th November 2025, there have been 11716 episodes of Coronation Street.2025 episodes · 2025 · 2006 episodes
  37. [37]
    History of Emmerdale
    ... ITV Studios) and broadcast by ITV in the United Kingdom since its first episode on 16th October 1972. Emmerdale has been filmed at their Yorkshire Studios ...
  38. [38]
    How 'Downton Abbey' transformed from TV phenom to box office ...
    Sep 27, 2019 · “Downton” was a rare original creation that sparked a global phenomenon and had viewers addicted to the unfolding fates of the aristocratic Crawley family.
  39. [39]
    I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! (TV Series 2002– ) - IMDb
    Rating 5.9/10 (3,741) Release date · August 25, 2002 (United Kingdom) ; Official sites · ITV (United Kingdom) · Official Facebook ; Also known as. I'm a Celebrity ; Filming locations.
  40. [40]
    Mr Bates and Mr Loverman win top Bafta Awards - BBC
    May 11, 2025 · Mr Loverman and Mr Bates vs the Post Office were among the big winners at Sunday's Bafta TV Awards, in a night which threw up several surprise winners.Missing: 2020-2025 | Show results with:2020-2025
  41. [41]
    UK TV exports reach record £1.85bn - The Media Leader
    Nov 13, 2023 · UK TV exports in 2022-2023 have reached their highest level, increasing 22% on the previous year to £1.85bn, new data has found.
  42. [42]
    [PDF] Anticipated acquisition by ITV Plc of 25 per cent of GMTV Limited
    1. ITV plc (ITV) was formed in February 2004 as a result of the merger between Granada plc (Granada) and Carlton Communications plc (Carlton), and currently ...
  43. [43]
    ITV Plc - London Stock Exchange
    Trading Status: Normal - Closed. FTSE 250. As at 10.11.25 23:45:00 GMT - All data delayed at least 15 minutes. 2 more instruments. ITV Plc Logo. ITV Plc ...
  44. [44]
    ITV Stock Price Quote | Morningstar
    ITV PLC ITV. Morningstar Rating. Unlock. Stock XLON Rating as of Nov 7, 2025 ... Number of Employees: 6,613. Website: https://www.itvplc.com. Valuation. View More ...
  45. [45]
    [PDF] ITV plc Half-Year results for the six months ended 30 June 2025
    Jul 24, 2025 · Total ITV Studios revenue was up 3% in. H1, with an 11% increase in external revenue, including significant deliveries to global streaming ...
  46. [46]
    ITV Studios - Home
    ITV Studios is the home to 60 production labels in 13 countries, we produce 7000 hours of shows each year and have a collection of over 90000 hours in ...
  47. [47]
    ITV sells its 50% share of BritBox International to BBC Studios
    Mar 1, 2024 · ITV plc has today announced that it has sold its entire 50% interest in digital subscription streaming service BritBox International to its joint venture ...Missing: subsidiaries | Show results with:subsidiaries
  48. [48]
    ITV confirms £100m takeover of UTV Media's television channels
    Oct 19, 2015 · UTV Media owns the ITV franchise in Northern Ireland and the newly-established UTV Ireland, which is on track to make an £11.5m loss in its ...
  49. [49]
    STV could become last independent in Channel 3 network - BBC
    Aug 24, 2015 · Three years ago, STV entered into a new affiliation deal with ITVplc which led to a new, friendly relationship between the two companies.Missing: Group plc
  50. [50]
    Board of Directors - ITV plc
    The ITV plc board includes Andrew Cosslett (Chairman), Carolyn McCall (CEO), Chris Kennedy (COO/CFO), and non-executive directors like Dawn Allen, Gidon Katz, ...<|separator|>
  51. [51]
    ITV Names Carolyn McCall CEO - The Hollywood Reporter
    Jul 16, 2017 · U.K. TV giant ITV has named easyJet CEO and former CEO of The Guardian Media Group Carolyn McCall its new CEO, effective Jan. 8, 2018. She will ...
  52. [52]
    Liberty Global halves ITV stake in portfolio shift | Reuters
    Oct 22, 2025 · Liberty Global Ventures sold 193.4 million ITV shares to institutional investors in a block trade, a bookrunner said, raising about 135 million ...Missing: plc | Show results with:plc
  53. [53]
    None
    Below is a merged summary of the ITV Plc Full Year Results 2024, consolidating all the information from the provided segments into a single, detailed response. To maximize clarity and density, I’ve included key data in a table format where applicable, followed by additional details and notes. All figures, proportions, and breakdowns are sourced from the summaries, with discrepancies noted where they arise.
  54. [54]
    ITV says worst of Covid pandemic is over as ad revenues rebound
    Jul 28, 2021 · ITV expects advertising in July to be up by 68% year on year but August will be up only by 17%, to 20%.Missing: post | Show results with:post
  55. [55]
    https://www.itv.com/presscentre/media-releases/itv-sells-its-50-share-britbox-international-bbc-studios
  56. [56]
    The definition of Interactive TV
    Interactive Television is TV programming with interactive content and/or enhancements. Interactive TV provides a richer and more efficient television experience ...
  57. [57]
    Remember Interactive Tv? It's Active Again - Bloomberg.com
    Apr 23, 2000 · ... Liberate has a chance to become the leading player in interactive-TV software. After failing dismally in the 1990s, the interactive-TV ...
  58. [58]
    Interactive TV Is Finally Here, Sort Of - The New York Times
    Apr 4, 2002 · Insight customers have Motorola set-top boxes with 6.8 megabytes of RAM running software from Liberate Technologies. Insight's flavor of ...
  59. [59]
    BBC Red Button: the birth of interactive TV - The Telegraph
    Nov 12, 2010 · It was launched in 1999 as BBC Text, using content imported from Ceefax, the corporation's teletext service. The Wimbledon Championships that ...
  60. [60]
    BUSINESS; Point and Click: Interactive TV Is Poised for a Prime ...
    Nov 21, 1999 · America Online has plenty of allies for its own interactive TV rollout, scheduled for the middle of 2000. The list includes the DirecTV ...
  61. [61]
    DirecTV Game Lounge (lost interactive television game service
    The games were available either through a free trial period for each game, a pay-per-day service for unlimited play at $1.95 per day, or a monthly membership at ...
  62. [62]
    An abridged history of Apple's TV efforts over the years - The Verge
    Mar 23, 2019 · Apple has been trying to do something big with TV for more than a decade, dating all the way back to when it first previewed the “iTV” streaming box in 2006.
  63. [63]
    DirecTV, Dish Connect on Interactive Ads - Light Reading
    Satellite-TV giants are close to striking a deal with a media buyer that would pipe interactive ads to homes served by both companies.Missing: pilots | Show results with:pilots
  64. [64]
    Roku Adds Interactive Pop-Up Ads to OTA TV on Roku TVs - Reddit
    Oct 6, 2019 · The only feature this disables is Roku showing more/related episodes on streaming when you watch something OTA. But enabling that feature (which ...
  65. [65]
    Interactive Streaming Market Size to Attain USD 284.18 Bn by 2034
    The global interactive streaming market is forecasted to grow from USD 38.31 billion in 2025 to USD 284.18 billion by 2034, expanding at a robust CAGR of ...
  66. [66]
    M901 ITV (Improved TOW Vehicle) - Military Factory
    The M901 ITV ("Improved TOW Vehicle") is a specially-devised variant of the M113 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) intended for the Anti-Tank (AT) role.Missing: acronym meanings
  67. [67]
    Recon Marines perfect ITV insertion capabilities
    Mar 26, 2015 · The Marines are building their insertion capabilities with the ITVs during a routine reconnaissance and surveillance mission.Missing: acronym | Show results with:acronym
  68. [68]
    ICRU Report 62, Prescribing, Recording and Reporting Photon ...
    ICRU Report 62 provides recommendations on the volumes and absorbed doses that are important in prescribing, recording and reporting photon beam therapy.
  69. [69]
    Industrial, Educational, and Instructional Television and Video
    Feb 26, 2020 · Industrial television (ITV) comprises a wide range of uses. In the postwar era, goods producers used closed-circuit television (CCTV) to ...Missing: acronym | Show results with:acronym
  70. [70]
    ITV Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
    What does the abbreviation ITV stand for? Meaning: instructional television.
  71. [71]
    Network Ten - Television.AU
    In April 1963, Reginald Ansett's Austarama Television was awarded the licence to operate Melbourne's third commercial television station. A few months later ...Missing: ITV | Show results with:ITV