Disney+ to add Channel 4 linear channel and shows in UK and Ireland

Disney+ has signed a significant content deal with the UK broadcaster Channel 4, which will make Channel 4's main linear channel and on-demand content available on Disney+ in the UK and Ireland starting in early 2027, Deadline reported.

The collaboration is described by Disney and Channel 4 executives as a "first-of-its-kind" and "landmark agreement," marking one of the most ambitious content deals in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Under the deal, multiple Channel 4 shows will be available on-demand on Disney+ simultaneously with their release on Channel 4. These include the drama "Maya," comedy "Stepping Up," and the reality series "Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins," Variety noted.

Disney+ customers will have access to Channel 4's linear HD channel and hundreds of hours of scripted and unscripted content through the on-demand catalogue at no additional cost, enhancing Channel 4's reach and expanding Disney+'s local content offerings, Variety added.

This agreement follows Disney+'s previous partnerships with other European broadcasters such as ITV in the UK, Italy's RAI, and broadcasters in Germany, Portugal, and Spain, illustrating Disney's strategy to make Disney+ a digital centerpiece for local content in various markets, The Hollywood Reporter explained.