Viacom Unveils Exciting New Era for FiveLife, FiveStar, Fiver, Five USA, Comedy Central, and MTV After Major Rebranding of Nickelodeon and Five

June 24, 2024

In a bold move aimed at revitalizing its entertainment portfolio, Viacom today announced an expansive rebranding initiative that promises to breathe new life into its popular channels: FiveLife, FiveStar, Fiver, Five USA, Comedy Central, and MTV. This comes on the heels of the successful rebranding of Nickelodeon, which has seen a significant uptick in viewership since its makeover.

During a press conference held at the Viacom headquarters in New York City, company executives expressed their commitment to providing fresh, innovative content tailored to their diverse audiences. The rebranding effort is part of Viacom’s broader strategy to enhance viewer engagement and modernize its channels, particularly in the ever-evolving landscape of streaming and digital entertainment.

“Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for FiveLife and our other channels,” said David Lynn, Viacom’s CEO. “We are dedicated to creating content that resonates with today’s viewers while remaining true to the unique identities of each channel. The reimagined FiveLife, FiveStar, Fiver, Five USA, Comedy Central, and MTV will feature original programming, beloved classics, and a modernized look that reflects current trends.”

New Shows and Content Lineup

Viacom's announcement unveiled a slate of new shows designed to captivate audiences across all age groups. Highlights include:

FiveLife will debut “Life Unlocked,” a lifestyle series that showcases inspiring personal stories and innovative home makeovers, along with “Taste the World,” a culinary adventure featuring renowned chefs from around the globe.
FiveStar is set to launch “Reality Remix,” a weekly show that merges competition and entertainment, challenging contestants in bizarrely fun situations, and “Star Life,” a documentary series that delves deep into the lives of the world’s biggest celebrities.
Fiver will roll out “Anime Infinity,” a groundbreaking block dedicated to showcasing emerging anime talent and original series that appeal to both hardcore fans and newcomers.
Five USA plans to introduce “Crime Chronicles,” a gripping true crime documentary series and “American Treasures,” which explores the fascinating stories behind iconic American landmarks.
Comedy Central will revamp its late-night lineup with “Night Owl,” featuring both established and fresh comedic voices, alongside “Laugh Riot,” a sketch show that promises to push the boundaries of humor.
MTV is also getting an upgrade, with “Next Gen,” a music competition show showcasing up-and-coming artists, and “Unplugged Reimagined,” a contemporary take on the beloved series featuring intimate sets from today’s top performers.
A Fresh Visual Identity

In addition to a new programming slate, the channels will unveil revamped logos and graphics designed to capture the essence of each brand while ensuring a cohesive visual experience. Viewers can expect brighter color palettes, cutting-edge animations, and a user-friendly interface across all platforms, including streaming services and social media channels.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

To elevate its new content offerings, Viacom is also exploring strategic partnerships with emerging talent and established creators. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and innovation, further enhancing the viewer experience.

As Viacom embarks on this exciting new journey, fans of FiveLife, FiveStar, Fiver, Five USA, Comedy Central, and MTV can expect a refreshing blend of nostalgia and modernity that reflects the company’s commitment to entertainment excellence.

“We believe that this rebranding will not only attract new viewers but also reignite the passion of existing fans,” Lynn concluded. “We are excited to unveil this fresh chapter, and we look forward to engaging our audiences with quality content that entertains, inspires, and connects.”

With a dynamic lineup and a vibrant new look, Viacom is poised to make waves in the entertainment landscape, setting the stage for an exciting future for its flagship networks.

Write a conversation asking if it's true the drug/thug/crime/violence themed #thuglife idents are going away from CC UK

Conversation About #ThugLife Idents on Comedy Central UK

Jamie: Hey, did you hear about the changes happening at Comedy Central UK?

Alex: No, what’s going on? Are they changing the programming?

Jamie: Sort of! I heard a rumor that they might be getting rid of those #ThugLife idents. You know, the ones with all the drug, thug, and violence themes?

Alex: Really? I thought those were just part of their branding now. Are they actually planning on dropping them?

Jamie: That's what I’ve been hearing. Some people are saying they want to move away from that image and focus on something more positive or funny.

Alex: That makes sense. I mean, while the #ThugLife idents are catchy, they don’t really fit with the spirit of the shows they air.

Jamie: Exactly! Comedy Central UK is known for their humor, not crime themes. It feels a bit off-brand.

Alex: Have they said what they’ll replace it with? I hope it’s something fresh and fun!

Jamie: I haven’t seen any details yet. I think it’s still in the discussion stage, but there’s a lot of buzz around it. People seem to be supportive of the idea.

Alex: That’s interesting. I’d love to see what direction they take it. Maybe something that reflects more of their comedic personality?

Jamie: Yeah, hopefully something light-hearted that connects better with their audience. I’ll keep an eye out for any updates!

Alex: Same here! It’d be great to get confirmation on that.

Write a follow up saying the idents were made due to dark humor, but they've learned this isn't really funny, He recognises the rebrand is pencilled in for November, being the first of the other Five affiliated channels to rebrand

Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding

Jamie: Hey, did you get any updates on the #ThugLife idents?

Alex: Yeah, I saw a post saying they were created as a form of dark humor. But apparently, they’ve realized it’s not really hitting the mark anymore.

Jamie: That makes sense. Dark humor can be really hit or miss, and it sounds like they’ve decided it’s best to move on from that theme.

Alex: Exactly! It’s good that they’re acknowledging it. I think that kind of humor can alienate a lot of viewers.

Jamie: Right? You want to make people laugh, not make them uncomfortable. So, do you have any details on when they’re planning to roll out the rebrand?

Alex: From what I read, the rebrand is penciled in for November. They’ll be the first of the Five-affiliated channels to undergo the change.

Jamie: That’s exciting! It’ll be interesting to see how they differentiate themselves from the other channels in the Five network.

Alex: Yeah, I hope they focus on light-hearted and relatable content. It’ll be nice to see something fresh and funny that resonates with their audience.

Jamie: Definitely! I’m looking forward to seeing how they completely transform it. Let’s keep each other posted as we hear more news about the rebranding!

Alex: For sure! It’ll be great to see what direction they take it in. Write a forum conversation titled "The Thugs are Outta here?" A user says for context the current idents have people being beaten up or mugged by thugs as Gangsta's Paradise or Hot in Herre plays, It is played for laughs in a dark way

Forum Title: The Thugs are Outta Here?

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! I just heard some buzz about Comedy Central UK possibly getting rid of those #ThugLife idents. For context, these idents have people getting beaten up or mugged by thugs, all while songs like “Gangsta's Paradise” or “Hot in Herre” play in the background. It's all played for laughs in a pretty dark way. Anyone else think this has run its course?

User2: SeriousViewer88
Honestly, I always found that style of humor a little off. It’s one thing to have edgy comedy, but using violence and crime as a punchline doesn’t sit right with me. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re rebranding with something a bit lighter!

User3: LaughFactory
I get what you’re saying, SeriousViewer88. Dark humor can be super hit or miss. In the past, they might've thought it was funny, but I think most people just roll their eyes at it now. It’s good to hear they’re recognizing it and possibly making a change.

User4: HopefulForChange
Exactly! There's a fine line with dark humor, and these idents are definitely on the edge. If they’re really looking to shift towards something more relatable and funny, count me in. Plus, it could bring in a wider audience!

User5: PopCultureBuff
I read somewhere that the rebrand is supposedly planned for November. They’ll be the first among the Five-affiliated channels to undergo this change. I’m eager to see what they come up with! If it means ditching the thuggish humor, I say bring it on!

User1: ComedyFan123
That’s exciting! I’m all for them transitioning to content that actually reflects the comedic brand they aim for. Do we have any idea what they might replace the idents with yet?

User6: NewAgeHumorist
No specifics yet, but I really hope they focus on something that channels good old-fashioned comedy—maybe something that feels fresher and connects better with what viewers want today. It’ll be interesting to see how it all pans out!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Agreed! I think fans will appreciate when they take this step closer to a positive representation of humor. Can't wait to see the final outcome. Let’s keep an eye out for updates!

User4: HopefulForChange
Will do! Fingers crossed they come up with something amazing. It’s about time they tapped into what truly resonates with audiences today!

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone, I just wanted to add a little more to the conversation. So, I noticed that Comedy Central UK has decided to air shows like SpongeBob SquarePants and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Fast Forward in the early mornings. I think that really cements their shift away from those dark humor #ThugLife idents.

User3: LaughFactory
Wow, that’s a great point! Airing those shows definitely signals that they want to embrace a more family-friendly, fun vibe. It aligns perfectly with moving away from the violent themes of the previous idents.

User5: PopCultureBuff
Totally agree! Those classic cartoons are all about lightheartedness and adventure. If they’re making that choice, it really shows they’re committed to reshaping their brand identity. It’s about time!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Exactly, ComedyFan123! This shift highlights their intent to connect with a broader audience. If they’re leaning into content that appeals to kids and families, then it’s clear that the previous themes just don’t fit anymore.

User6: NewAgeHumorist
It’s such a smart move! Shows like SpongeBob and TMNT bring nostalgia for many viewers, while also being amusing for kids today. It’ll be interesting to see how that affects their image in the long run.

User4: HopefulForChange
Definitely! They’re laying the groundwork for positive branding, and I’m all for it. If the idents are gone and replaced with a healthier representation of humor, along with popular animated shows, that’s a win in my book.

User1: ComedyFan123
For sure! I think it’s a promising direction, and I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds. Let’s keep discussing any updates we find!

User7: NumberInfinity
Hello, You may remember me from when I gave you insights about the Five "emotion" idents launch last year, I'm just here to reminisce about old idents,
2005 was the final pres look for Paramount Comedy in the UK and thus featured weird and wonderful idents: Animated black rabbits popping out of a hole, a real rabbit also appears, the animated ones look angry at it, medieveal people worshipping the logo, a dolphin on a skateboard, a rabbit in a UFO, etc, Promo endboards had a wind-up toy cat with a TV for a face showing a image of the show being promoted's logo, before eventually turning to the channel logo, Next banners/promos etc used the Cooper Black font, 2009 brought the first look for Comedy Central in the UK, logo was a massive object crashing around cities, 2015 had very simplistic idents with the logo being shook around on a anmimated background, I hear one of these sets is returning in November, along with.. bad news guys....... MORE FRIENDS RERUNS.... Write a follow up conversation saying "As if we don't have enough Friends already", Infinity says "Also keep a eye out for vauge changes to stylization from late September,"

Forum Title: The Thugs are Outta Here? (Continued)

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone, just wanted to circle back and see what updates we’ve got regarding the rebranding!

User7: NumberInfinity
Hello again, everyone! I have some insights to share. It seems like the rebranding of Comedy Central UK is really happening, and I’ve heard that we might see some vague changes to their stylization starting in late September.

User2: SeriousViewer88
Vague changes? That sounds intriguing! I wonder what they have planned. Hopefully, it’ll be a good indication of the new direction they’re taking.

User5: PopCultureBuff
For real! I’m curious to see how they start rolling out these changes. It could be a sign of the new idents, which I’m all for!

User3: LaughFactory
I can’t wait to see what they do! And on a side note, did you guys hear that there are talks of more reruns of Friends? As if we don’t have enough Friends already!

User7: NumberInfinity
Yeah, I heard that too. It seems like every network wants to cash in on Friends reruns! But hey, nostalgia is a strong draw, I guess. Still, I hope they balance it out with fresh content.

User4: HopefulForChange
Exactly! It would be nice to see a mix of new, innovative programming alongside a few familiar classics. But definitely not just Friends. I’m ready for something new!

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Right! If they end up leaning too heavily on reruns, it might overshadow their efforts to reinvent themselves. I really hope the new content gets the spotlight it deserves.

User1: ComedyFan123
Agreed! Let’s keep an eye on what changes they announce in late September. Hopefully, we’ll see the old idents fading into the background soon!

User7: NumberInfinity
For sure! I’ll keep you all posted if I hear any more vibes about the upcoming changes. It sounds like Comedy Central UK is finally stepping up!

Write a follow up on 27th of September, the graffiti endboard is still there, but the font isn't the Crew Rebellion font anymore, as a promo for October's "Family Guy Friday Night Griffin-A-Thon" displays,


Forum Title: The Thugs are Outta Here? (Continued)

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! Just wanted to check in and share some updates. So it's September 27th, and I was hoping to see more of the changes roll out, but it looks like the graffiti endboard is still hanging around.

User3: LaughFactory
Yeah, I noticed that too, but I guess it's expected that some of the old elements would linger for a bit during the transition. The changes can be gradual, right?

User2: SeriousViewer88
True, but I was hoping they’d make a more noticeable shift by now. Has anyone else seen any new promos to indicate what's coming next?

User5: PopCultureBuff
I did catch a promo for October’s “Family Guy Friday Night Griffin-A-Thon,” and while the graffiti endboard is still there, the font used definitely isn’t the Crew Rebellion font anymore. It seems like they’re trying to freshen things up!

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Interesting! That suggests they’re slowly working on the new visual style. Even though the endboard is familiar, changing the font is a step in the right direction.

User4: HopefulForChange
Exactly! Even small changes can signal a shift in branding. I’m glad they’re experimenting with the presentation, even if it’s not all at once.

User1: ComedyFan123
That makes sense! And I guess it shows they’re at least aware that repetition of the same style is not going to resonate well anymore. Do we know if they’re planning to unveil more changes soon?

User7: NumberInfinity
From what I hear, they’re still in the process of finalizing things. The new look and some fresh idents are expected to roll out soon, so we might have more to discuss as October approaches!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Awesome! I’m really looking forward to seeing what they come up with. Hopefully, it fully aligns with the new content direction they’re aiming for.

User5: PopCultureBuff
For sure! Let’s keep sharing updates as they come. I think this transformation could be what Comedy Central UK really needs to engage with more viewers!



It looks like you didn't include any additional content or questions in your last message. If there's anything specific you'd like to discuss or any follow-up content you want me to create, please let me know! I'm here to help!


Write a follow up asking if there was still a flash of "#thuglife" at the end


Forum Title: The Thugs are Outta Here? (Continued)

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! Just following up on the recent updates. I’m curious—did anyone notice if there’s still a flash of the #ThugLife message at the end of the promos or idents?

User3: LaughFactory
Good question! I didn’t catch that in the recent “Family Guy Friday Night Griffin-A-Thon” promo, but I wonder if they’re planning to phase it out completely.

User2: SeriousViewer88
I hope they do! That whole theme has felt really out of place with the direction they’re trying to move towards. It would be great to eliminate that entirely!

User5: PopCultureBuff
Yeah, I didn’t see it either. If the graffiti is still there, but they’re changing other elements, maybe they’re trying to slowly distance themselves from it? I’d love to confirm it, though!

User4: HopefulForChange
I’m with you all! Ideally, it would be a clean break from the entire #ThugLife branding. I think fans are ready for something more uplifting and reflective of their comedic identity.

User1: ComedyFan123
Let’s keep an eye out for any upcoming promos! Hopefully, the next ones will give us a better glimpse into whether that flash is still there or if it’s finally gone for good.


Write a follow up saying a bumper on a white background had the current logo fall into a hole, and a announcer say "Very soon.... Comedy Central is changing..."


Forum Title: The Thugs are Outta Here? (Continued)

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! Just saw a new bumper while flipping through channels, and it seems like we’re really getting closer to the rebranding!

User3: LaughFactory
Oh, really? What happened in the bumper?

User1: ComedyFan123
It had a clean white background, and the current Comedy Central logo fell into a hole. Then an announcer said, "Very soon... Comedy Central is changing..."

User5: PopCultureBuff
That sounds intriguing! It definitely suggests that they’re gearing up for a big transformation. The clean look hints that they’re moving away from the past branding.

User2: SeriousViewer88
I love it! A logo falling into a hole feels symbolic of leaving the old behind. I hope we see a full reveal soon!

User6: NewAgeHumorist
That’s such a creative way to announce changes! I wonder what the new direction will be. If they’re promoting it like this, they must have something exciting in store.

User4: HopefulForChange
Absolutely! It seems like they’re really committing to this rebrand. Let’s hope that with it comes a fresh identity that resonates with viewers!

User1: ComedyFan123
I’ll keep everyone posted if I see more of these teasers or anything else! This change might just be what Comedy Central UK needs to reenergize its audience. Write a conversation on October 26 where the bumper now says the change is from Nov 20