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, This character was referred to by the others as "Weird Cat Thing", 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," A bumper airing now has some guy saying "Hey, We changin' in 2 months, but don't take my word for it"

Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding and Changes

User1: ComedyFan123
Wow, can you believe they might be bringing back some of those crazy old idents from Paramount Comedy? It feels like a blast from the past! But I’m just worried about what they said regarding more Friends reruns... As if we don't have enough Friends already!

User7: NumberInfinity
I feel you! Friends has been everywhere for years now. It’s like they think we can’t get enough of Ross and Rachel! 😂 But hey, at least there’s a chance for some eccentric idents to return, right?

User2: SeriousViewer88
I get that they want to bring nostalgia, but there’s such a thing as overdoing it. It would be nice to see them create original content instead.

User6: NewAgeHumorist
I agree! Definitely sounds like they’re playing it safe. So, did you hear about these vague changes to the stylization coming late September?

User4: HopefulForChange
No, what’s that about? I’m guessing they want to start teasing this rebrand ahead of time?

User7: NumberInfinity
Yeah! I heard that one of the bumpers airing now has some guy saying, "Hey, we changin' in 2 months, but don’t take my word for it." It seems like they’re trying to build hype leading up to the changes!

User3: LaughFactory
That sounds intriguing! It’s good to see them dropping hints while keeping some mystery about the rebrand. I do hope they focus on creativity and fun.

User5: PopCultureBuff
Agreed! The anticipation for the new identity is exciting, even if it includes reruns of Friends. As long as they balance it out with fresh content too, I’m all in!

User1: ComedyFan123
For sure! I can't wait to see what they come up with in November, but I also hope they don’t lean too much on old content. Let’s keep each other posted as we get more info about these stylization changes!

User4: HopefulForChange
Absolutely! It’s time for a shift, and we’re in this together to track any updates. Here’s to a fun and fresh Comedy Central UK! 🎉

Write a follow up where in early october, the same guy appears and holds something familiar and says "See you in a month loser"

Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! I just saw another bumper airing for the Comedy Central UK rebrand, and it was kind of… well, bizarre!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Oh? What happened? Spill the tea! ☕️

User1: So, this same guy from before appeared again, but this time he was holding a giant rubber chicken! He looked directly at the camera and said, "See you in a month, loser." 😂

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Wait, what? A rubber chicken? That’s hilarious and super random! I wonder if they’re trying to lean into more silly humor with the rebrand.

User4: HopefulForChange
That’s actually kind of brilliant! A rubber chicken is such an iconic comedy prop. Maybe they’re really stepping away from the dark humor and going for something more goofy and light-hearted.

User3: LaughFactory
I love that! It sounds like they’re really getting playful with this. But "loser"? That has a slightly cheeky edge to it!

User5: PopCultureBuff
Yeah, I can see how it might come off as a bit edgy, but it's all in good fun. As long as they keep it light and don’t return to that dark humor, I’m here for it!

User7: NumberInfinity
Totally! The rubber chicken vibe definitely fits with the comedy theme and feels right for the rebranding. I’m curious to see if that’ll become a recurring element once the new look rolls out.

User1: ComedyFan123
Agreed! I hope they keep this kind of playful energy going with future promos. It’s such a shift from the old idents, and I’m loving it!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Same here! It’s nice to see them trying to connect with viewers in a more humorous and relatable way. Let's keep our eyes peeled for more teasers as we get closer to November!

User4: HopefulForChange
Absolutely! I have a feeling this rebrand is going to be quite the ride. It’ll be interesting to see if they use that rubber chicken as an ongoing gag. Fingers crossed it all turns out great! 🎉

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Definitely! I'll keep my ears open for more bumps and teasers. This rebrand is shaping up to be a fun one!

Write a follow up where a Family Guy promo still uses the grafitti endboard, but the font isn't Gangsta 4EVA anymore, Guess what font's back

Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding and Family Guy Promo

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! I just spotted a new promo for Family Guy on Comedy Central UK, and it’s kind of funny how they’re still using that graffiti endboard!

User3: LaughFactory
Oh wow, really? I thought they were moving away from all that style. How does it look now?

User1: Well, they’ve kept the graffiti backdrop, but the font isn’t “Gangsta 4EVA” anymore. Instead, guess what’s back?

User5: PopCultureBuff
Hmm, I’m going to say… Cooper Black? That seems to be trending with all the rebranding!

User2: SeriousViewer88
No way! They’re bringing back Cooper Black? That’s actually a cool change. It feels a lot more nostalgic and in line with fun redesigns.

User7: NumberInfinity
Yep, you got it! I think it fits with the new light-hearted approach they’re taking. It’s nice to see them merging elements from the past with fresh ideas.

User4: HopefulForChange
That’s interesting! Cooper Black has such a classic vibe, and it’s way better than “Gangsta 4EVA.” It feels more inclusive and less edgy.

User6: NewAgeHumorist
I’m here for it! So, the graffiti still sort of reflects the old style, but with a more playful and classic font to match their new identity. Sounds like they’re really trying to reinvent themselves while holding onto a bit of nostalgia.

User1: ComedyFan123
Exactly! I think Comedy Central UK is doing a good job balancing between old favorites and new directions. I can’t wait to see more changes rolling out soon!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Me too! I'm curious to see how else they'll innovate their look and content. Let's keep an eye out for more promos and updates leading into November!

Write a follow up noticing the show logo is grafittied to the left of the screen, Infinity says "Oh they're just planning to add back Wei-OH NO... I've said too much, I'M DONE FOR, Oh and that guy will tell you more in a week"

Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding and Family Guy Promo

User1: ComedyFan123
Okay, I just spotted something else in that Family Guy promo! The show logo is actually graffitied to the left of the screen. That’s an interesting touch!

User4: HopefulForChange
Really? So they’re sticking with that urban, graffiti style? I thought they were moving away from all of that.

User7: NumberInfinity
Oh, they’re just planning to add back Wei-OH NO… I’ve said too much, I'M DONE FOR! 😱 But seriously, it seems like they might tease some classic elements with a twist.

User2: SeriousViewer88
Haha, what are you implying, Infinity? Are we looking at a return of some old-school vibes? That sounds intriguing!

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Right? Wei-OH NO is such a nostalgic thing to think about. Hopefully, whatever they’ve got planned is something fresh with a hint of nostalgia!

User1: ComedyFan123
I’m curious to see what else they’ll blend into the new design. Any idea what you meant about that guy who will tell us more?

User7: NumberInfinity
Oh! That dude I mentioned before—the one with the rubber chicken! He’ll pop up again in about a week, probably to tease us with what’s next. I can't wait to see what he says!

User3: LaughFactory
Sounds like they’re trying to keep the excitement rolling! I love how they’re incorporating humor and suspense in the lead-up to the rebrand. Let’s just hope they don’t overwhelm us with too much nostalgia!

User5: PopCultureBuff
Agreed! I’m all about a fresh perspective, but it should resonate and not feel like they’re just recycling everything. Let’s see what that guy reveals!

User4: HopefulForChange
Definitely! I’ll be waiting for updates, especially if it means hearing about any surprises coming our way. Here’s to Comedy Central UK finding that perfect balance! 🎉

Write a follow up saying it's obvious he was cut off, We will see if this promo style eventually transitions back to WCT, which by the way would remove ALL traces of the graffiti, By the way did that promo end with the #thuglife hashtag

Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding and Family Guy Promo

User1: ComedyFan123
Wow, it was so obvious that Infinity got cut off there! I'm really curious about what else he knows.

User2: SeriousViewer88
Totally! It sounds like there's more to the story with those classic elements coming back. It'll be interesting to see if this promo style eventually transitions back to the WCT (Weird Cat Thing) look, since that would remove ALL traces of the graffiti.

User4: HopefulForChange
Right? It would be a complete 180 if they fully embrace the WCT style again! I liked that whimsical approach, but it really would signal a more significant shift from the old branding.

User5: PopCultureBuff
By the way, did that Family Guy promo end with the #thuglife hashtag? That would be a weird throwback if they’re transitioning away from that whole vibe!

User3: LaughFactory
Yeah, I noticed it! It feels a bit odd given the current direction they're heading in. Wouldn't that just undermine the whole rebranding effort?

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Exactly! It’s like they’re trying to move forward, yet they wave goodbye to those past elements with the hashtag. They need to be careful about sending mixed messages to viewers.

User1: ComedyFan123
It'll be interesting to see if they keep that hashtag or if they phase it out completely as they redefine themselves. Let's stay tuned for any more updates or teasers regarding this whole rebranding process!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Yes, let’s keep an eye out! It'll be fun to see how Comedy Central UK navigates this transformation and if they can really distance themselves from the past while delivering fresh content.

Write a follow up on 26 October, a Friends promo for a marathon on 20th basically confirms all, goodbye to the urban look


Follow-Up Conversation About Comedy Central UK's Rebranding and Friends Promo

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! So, I just saw a promo for a Friends marathon scheduled for November 20th, and it’s crystal clear now—they’re really saying goodbye to the urban look!

User3: LaughFactory
No way! Does the promo reflect that shift? I really want to hear more about it!

User1: Yeah! The promo had this bright and cheerful aesthetic, completely abandoning the graffiti style. It felt more aligned with the light-hearted direction they’re aiming for. They even had some iconic Friends moments playing in the background!

User5: PopCultureBuff
That’s awesome! It sounds like they’re fully embracing a new identity and departing from that darker, urban theme of the past. Did they mention anything about other shows getting a similar treatment?

User2: SeriousViewer88
Not that I saw in this promo specifically, but this definitely signals a larger commitment to a lighter, more fun brand image overall. It’s about time!

User4: HopefulForChange
Absolutely! It feels refreshing to know they’re moving towards something more colorful and enjoyable that connects better with their audience. I hope the new promos keep this vibe!

User6: NewAgeHumorist
I agree! It’s such a positive change. It’ll be interesting to see how they incorporate shows like Family Guy into this new style as well.

User1: ComedyFan123
Exactly! With the Friends marathon on the horizon, this rebranding seems more than just talk. I can't wait to see what they come up with in the next few weeks!

User3: LaughFactory
For sure! The countdown is on. Let’s see if they drop more hints about upcoming changes, especially with that rubber chicken guy making another cameo! 🎉

User5: PopCultureBuff
Yes! Here’s to a brand new chapter for Comedy Central UK! Let’s keep an eye out for any more updates leading up to the rebrand.


Write a follow up asking what the end looked like, final clip was displayed on WCT instead of the brick wall?


Follow-Up Conversation About the Friends Promo and Ending Transition

User1: ComedyFan123
Hey everyone! I just caught the end of that Friends promo, and I have to say, it was pretty interesting! What did you think the final clip looked like?

User2: SeriousViewer88
I haven’t seen it yet! Did they use that classic WCT (Weird Cat Thing) style, or was it still leaning into the urban aesthetic?

User1: It was actually on the WCT end! Instead of that graffiti and brick wall look, they had those quirky animated characters from the WCT era bouncing around, and it was really nostalgic!

User4: HopefulForChange
Wow, that’s a huge change! It sounds like they’re fully committing to the new visuals. The WCT style definitely feels more fun and aligns with the direction they want to go in.

User5: PopCultureBuff
That’s really exciting! It seems like they’re blending classic elements with modern humor, which could be a hit with viewers. Did they give any hints about how many of these WCT-style clips we might see in future promos?

User1: Not in this promo, but if they're using the WCT style for Friends, it’s likely we’ll see it for other shows too! I think this is a clear sign they’re trying to distance themselves from the darker themes.

User3: LaughFactory
Sounds promising! I can’t wait to see how they incorporate that into more content. This rebrand is shaping up to be quite the adventure!

User6: NewAgeHumorist
Definitely! I’m looking forward to more teasers and promos leading up to the unveiling. This shift is definitely one to watch!

User2: SeriousViewer88
Agreed! Let’s keep sharing our thoughts and updates as we dive deeper into this exciting rebranding process!


Write a conversation asking if anything's different about it (like the Weird Cat Thing character's default state on it's screen was the logo back then), Did they change that