Channel 4 is launching a new digital comedy channel for original unscripted British comedy content. Hosted on YouTube, A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 will launch later this month and will be curated by Strong Watch Studios.
The new channel is the latest addition to the public service streamer’s digital portfolio as it continues to innovate in the digital space. It follows the recent debut of food channel Channel 4 Served and the ground-breaking success of youth channel brand Channel 4.0, which has built a huge fanbase since its launch in October 2022.
A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 will publish weekly long-form programming (approx. 20-30 minutes) for YouTube, while cutdowns will engage audiences across TikTok and Instagram. Strong Watch Studios, which is backed by Hat Trick Productions, has been commissioned to launch the channel and produce the first wave of new formats and additional social content. Each of the yet to be announced shows will be fronted by an ensemble cast of hotly tipped British comics. The cast will across a range of comedy genres, from podcasts and crowd work to quick-fire gags and panel shows.
Sacha Khari, head of digital commissioning at Channel 4, said, “Channel 4 has a long history of shaping British comedy, and with (the new channel) we’re bringing that legacy into pixels. It’s built for a community who get their laughs online first but still love the buzz of a live gig. Whether you’re discovering your next favourite comic on YouTube or catching them on stage later, this channel delivers straight to your feed.”
Khari added: “Our digital shows are already building loyal fanbases and getting real recognition and A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 is the next step. A proper home for the next wave of British comedy, made for the way modern audiences are choosing to watch. The next few months are going to be big and very funny.”
A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 is led by head of digital commissioning, Sacha Khari and digital commissioning editor Charlie Hyland. Executive producers for Strong Watch Studios are Thom Gulseven and Ben Powell-Jones.
