Channel 4 is extending its distribution partnership with Spotify through the launch of A Comedy Thing by Channel 4, its dedicated digital comedy channel.
The channel will be available to Spotify users on mobile and desktop platforms. It marks Channel 4’s latest move to broaden its digital footprint and strengthen engagement with younger audiences through platform-native content.
Originally launched on YouTube last summer, A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 is produced by Strong Watch Studios, backed by Hat Trick Productions. The digital-first ensemble channel brings together emerging and established comedians to create original formats tailored for online audiences. The Spotify launch begins with the format The Lying Game, featuring performers including Vittorio Angelone, Mike Rice, Finlay Christie, Olga Koch, Micky Overman, Dan Tiernan and Gbemi Oladipo.
The move builds on Channel 4’s strategy to expand distribution across third-party platforms. Last year, the broadcaster became the first UK public service broadcaster to bring video programming to Spotify with content from Channel 4.0.
Channel 4 has previously launched programming on Snapchat (2018) and TikTok (2021), and in 2022 struck a deal to distribute long-form content on YouTube.
Grace Boswood, Channel 4 technology & distribution director, said: “Following our launch on Spotify last summer, we’re excited to bring Channel 4’s premium comedy content to our audiences where they are, on the digital platforms they love. We are thrilled to introduce Spotify audiences to the next wave of British comedians.”
Alastair Ferrans, head of international at Spotify, said: “We’re seeing huge engagement with comedy video content on Spotify, so it’s great to be able to provide more content that we know our users will love. In addition, Channel 4 has proven to be a great partner to us through recent collaborations, so it’s a no brainer for us to continue working together and delivering new experiences and formats.”
A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 is overseen by Laura Marks, head of digital commissioning, and Charlie Hyland, digital commissioning editor. Executive producers for Strong Watch Studios are Thom Gulseven and Ben Powell-Jones.
