Disney+ to add Channel 4 content in the UK and Ireland starting in 2027

Disney+ plans to introduce Channel 4 content in the UK and Ireland starting in 2027 as part of a new collaboration. The partnership aims to expand both parties' audiences by offering Channel 4's titles on-demand alongside Channel 4's live TV channel. This first-of-its-kind deal will provide Disney+ subscribers with access to Channel 4's dramas, comedies, and reality shows, including Maya, Stepping Up, and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins.

Although Channel 4 can already be streamed for free on its dedicated All 4 service, the partnership is meant to bring Channel 4's programming to viewers who don't use public service broadcasting platforms. Disney+ CEO Adam Smith and Channel 4 CEO Priya Dogra expressed excitement about the collaboration, which will be accessible through a dedicated Channel 4-branded section in the Disney+ app at no additional cost.

This partnership could have implications for the proposed YouTube tax changes to the BBC licensing fee, as it demonstrates that UK broadcasters can successfully negotiate major commercial deals independently, weakening the case for a broader streaming tax.