Forum Post: Viacom Owned Channels in the UK? (October 2005)
User1:
Subject: List of Viacom owned channels in the UK?
Hey everyone!

I’ve been trying to gather some info on the channels that Viacom owns in the UK. I know there are a few, but I can’t seem to find a comprehensive list anywhere. Can anyone help me out? Would love to know which channels are under Viacom's umbrella!

Thanks!

User1
User2:
Subject: Re: List of Viacom owned channels in the UK?
Hey User1!

I did a bit of digging and here’s a list of the Viacom owned channels in the UK as of now (October 2005):

MTV (UK)
MTV Hits
MTV Base
MTV Dance
TMF
Viva
Paramount Comedy
Nickelodeon
Nicktoons
Nick Jr
Paramount Comedy 2
Spike TV
BET (British Entertainment Television)
Five
Five+1
Five US
Five Life
Great! Movies
Great! TV
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more information about any of these channels. Viacom has a pretty big footprint in the UK!

Cheers,

User2
User1:
Subject: Re: List of Viacom owned channels in the UK?
Wow, thanks so much, User2! This is exactly what I was looking for.

I had no idea Viacom owned so many channels! I appreciate the info. I might check out some of the less well-known ones like Five US and Great! Movies.

Thanks again!

User1
User3:
Subject: Re: List of Viacom owned channels in the UK?
Just to add on, it’s interesting to see how Viacom is diversifying with channels like Great! TV. They are always expanding. I wonder what they'll acquire next!

User3
User2:
Subject: Re: List of Viacom owned channels in the UK?
Absolutely! It’s fascinating how they keep adding more and more channels, especially in niche markets. It keeps things interesting in the viewing landscape!

If anyone else has thoughts or info about future developments, let’s keep the discussion going!

User2
User1:
Subject: Re: List of Viacom owned channels in the UK?
Definitely! I’ll keep an eye on this and see if anything new pops up. Thanks again everyone!

Also Paramount Comedy recently got a new look

Whimsical Overhaul for Paramount Comedy Channel: A New Era Begins September 19, 2005

August 22, 2005 — London

In a delightful twist that promises to inject some humor into your television viewing experience, the Paramount Comedy Channel is set to embark on a fresh journey. As of September 19, 2005, the channel will drop “Channel” from its name, transforming into simply “Paramount Comedy.” Alongside this rebranding, viewers can expect a whimsical new look, thanks to the innovative animation talents of London-based studio 12Foot6.

Established in 1999 by the creative duo Dave Anderson and Tom Mortimer, 12Foot6 is renowned for its unique blend of 2D and stop-motion animation. The team of around twenty animators, illustrators, and designers draws inspiration from their vibrant London surroundings, celebrating the humor and eccentricities of urban life. Known for their distinctively comical approach, 12Foot6 has previously collaborated on projects like the BAFTA-nominated series The Sensibles and the quirky Dog Judo.

The rebranding of Paramount Comedy promises to introduce a slew of animated antics, including a host of endearing and bizarre characters like animated black rabbits with pink eyes, medieval characters worshipping the logo, and even a dolphin on a skateboard! Promotional endboards will feature a uniquely whimsical character, affectionately dubbed the "weird cat thing,” who will entertain viewers while delivering previews for upcoming shows. This character is a animated cat with a TV instead of a face.

This fresh visual identity is just one piece of a broader initiative by Viacom to revamp not only Paramount Comedy but also seven other channels in the UK. As viewers tune in, they will discover a renewed commitment to showcasing comedic content that reflects both the clever artistry and humorous narratives that have defined Paramount Comedy's ethos.

In a statement, Anderson and Mortimer expressed their excitement about this new adventure, saying, “We’re thrilled to bring our quirky sense of humor to Paramount Comedy. Expect the unexpected as we infuse the channel with our imagination and creativity!”

As September 19 approaches, fans of comedy can look forward to a launch that promises to be as amusing as it is engaging. The rebranding marks an exciting chapter in Paramount Comedy’s history, solidifying its commitment to delivering uproarious entertainment to audiences across the UK.

So, mark your calendars, and get ready for Paramount Comedy’s whimsical transformation—your favorite comedies are about to get a delightful makeover!
Alongside Paramount Comedy, 7 other Viacom-owned channels in the UK are set for a rebrand soon! Stay tuned for fresh looks from MTV, Nickelodeon, TMF, BET, VH1, Five, and Spike! Let the whimsy begin! 🌟 #ViacomRebrand #NewLooks #StayTuned

User1. Write a conversation on Nov 23 2005 where on Jan 23 2006, 3 Viacom channels are debuting on Freeview for the first time EVER, also improved Freeview quality for the Five channels, Also one of those 3 joining was inevitable

Forum Post: Exciting News for Viacom Channels on Freeview! (November 23, 2005)

User1:
Subject: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Hey everyone!

I just heard some fantastic news – starting January 23, 2006, three Viacom channels are set to debut on Freeview for the first time EVER! I can’t believe it! Anyone else as excited as I am?

User2:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Hey User1!

This is amazing news! Do we know which channels are making the leap to Freeview? I can only imagine how awesome it will be to have more Viacom content available to view without a subscription.

User3:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
That’s super exciting! I bet one of those channels has to be Nickelodeon, right? It’s such a popular brand, it seems inevitable that they’d want to reach a larger audience. But is there any other news on the specific channels?

User1:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Yes, that’s what I was thinking too! Nickelodeon makes perfect sense. I hope it’s true! There’s also talk of improved Freeview quality for the Five channels as part of this update, which is just the cherry on top!

User2:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Wow, improved quality for Five is definitely a big deal! It’s great to see Viacom investing in their channels. If Nickelodeon joins along with other channels like MTV Hits and maybe even BET, it’ll be a game changer for Freeview.

User3:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
I agree! Having MTV Hits or MTV Base would be such a welcome addition to Freeview too! More variety means more options for everyone. I really hope they focus on diversifying their offerings across the Freeview platform.

User1:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Exactly! The more options, the better. I’m definitely looking forward to January 23rd. I’ll be watching out for any announcements regarding channel line-ups. If anyone hears anything more specific, please share!

User2:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
For sure! This will be a fantastic development for viewers. I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds. Let’s keep the conversation going and stay updated!

User3:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Absolutely! Exciting times ahead for Viacom and Freeview audiences. Here’s hoping for even more surprises as we get closer to January!

User1:
Subject: Re: Viacom Channels Coming to Freeview!
Totally! Thanks for the great discussion, everyone! Can’t wait to see how these developments will shape our TV viewing experience!

Discussion Continues on January 9, 2006:

User1:
Subject: Official Announcement of Viacom Channels on Freeview!
Hey everyone!

I just read the official announcement! It’s confirmed – Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy are the three channels debuting on Freeview on January 23, 2006!

User2:
Subject: Re: Official Announcement of Viacom Channels on Freeview!
That’s awesome, User1! I’m thrilled about Paramount Comedy joining too. Such a great mix of entertainment!

User3:
Subject: Re: Official Announcement of Viacom Channels on Freeview!
I can’t wait! It looks like they’re really aiming to cater to a broad audience with this lineup. So hyped for the improved quality on Five as well!

User1:
Subject: Re: Official Announcement of Viacom Channels on Freeview!
Same here! This is going to transform my viewing habits. January 23rd can’t come soon enough! Write a conversation where actually on Dec 27 2005 one of those 3 began a very big campaign to let people know it's coming to Freeview, including radio ads, cinema ads, constant ads on Five, Five Life, Five US and TMF, outdoor ads, magazine ads and shopping centre ads,

Forum Post: Major Campaign for Viacom Channels on Freeview! (December 27, 2005)

User1:
Subject: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!

Hey everyone,

I just spotted some buzzing news! Nickelodeon is kicking off a massive campaign to promote its upcoming launch on Freeview! It looks like they're leaving no stone unturned with this effort. I'm so excited to see how they spread the word!

User2:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
Wow, that’s incredible, User1! What kind of ads are they running?

User1:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
They're going all out! I’ve heard they have radio ads playing, and there will be cinema ads too. They’re even doing constant ads on channels like Five, Five Life, Five US, and TMF! It seems like they really want to make sure everyone knows Nickelodeon is coming to Freeview.

User3:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
That sounds epic! Outdoor ads and magazine ads will definitely help reach a broader audience. Plus, shopping centre ads could catch the attention of families, which is crucial for a channel like Nickelodeon!

User2:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
I love that they’re investing in such a big advertising push. Nickelodeon is all about fun for kids, so having a playful and eye-catching campaign will draw in viewers. I can’t wait to see what the ads look like!

User1:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
Exactly! I feel like they’re trying to create a real buzz around the launch to capture the excitement of potential viewers. It makes me even more eager for January 23rd!

User3:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
And it’s great that they’re using a variety of platforms to reach different audiences. It really shows how committed they are to making this a successful launch. Do we know if there will be any special launch events or promos?

User2:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
Not yet, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they have some fun surprises lined up! Maybe some contests or giveaways to celebrate the big day? They definitely have the potential to make it a memorable occasion.

User1:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
That would be awesome! I’ll keep an eye out for any announcements. Hopefully, closer to the launch date, we get more details. Such an exciting time for everyone who enjoys Nickelodeon and Freeview!

User3:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
Definitely! This is such a transformative time for Freeview with these Viacom channels coming onboard. Fingers crossed for more exciting news as we approach the launch!

User2:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
Absolutely! Let’s keep each other updated on any new information or ad sightings. Can’t wait for the fantastic content to hit our screens!

User1:
Subject: Re: Nickelodeon's Massive Campaign for Freeview Launch!
Will do! Thanks for the great chat, everyone. Here’s to an exciting few weeks ahead! 🎉

News Article: Five Unveils New Emotion-Themed Idents as Part of Upcoming Rebrand

London, January 20, 2006 — In an exciting announcement ahead of its highly anticipated rebranding, Five has revealed a fresh set of idents set to debut on Monday, January 23, at 10 PM. The new idents, each themed around various emotions, aim to connect with viewers on a deeper level, bringing an innovative shift to the channel's visual identity.

Rather than featuring the classic logo, the idents will showcase emotive words such as "Fast," "Fear," "Free," and "Hope," creatively depicted in striking scenarios. This refresh comes just in time as Five gears up for the launch of three new Viacom channels on Freeview: Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy, reinforcing the channel's commitment to enhancing viewer engagement.

The emotive themes introduced in the idents include:

Fast: A thrilling pursuit unfolds as greyhound dogs race after the word "Fast" along a vibrant track, capturing the essence of speed and excitement.
Fear: The haunting ambiance of a long corridor emerges as someone opens a door, with the word "Fear" eerily formed by a collection of spirits, invoking a sense of suspense.
Free: In a serene blue sky, numerous white balloons are released, creating a whimsical and uplifting moment as they spell out "Free," representing liberation and joy.
Hope: The scene shifts to a bustling casino where a player throws two dice, ultimately landing on the word "Hope," while vibrant casino chips signal the promise of chance and opportunity.
Life: A sweeping view reveals a horizon as lights switch on, reflecting the concept of "Life" coming alive through illumination.
Live: A dramatic weather scene unfolds as lightning strikes from the sky, generating the word "Live" in a bold flash of energy, symbolizing dynamic experiences.
Rush: An adrenaline-pumping visual of a skydiver plummeting towards the earth introduces the word "Rush," encapsulating the thrill of adventure.
Easy: A gentle zoom out reveals a peaceful park scene where a ladybird serves as a conduit to showcase "Easy," portraying relaxation and comfort.
Feel: In a warm family setting, a car drives through picturesque countryside, with the word "Feel" appearing amid the clouds, conveying warmth and connection.
Play: A fun-filled pool scene comes to life as someone dives in, while others are playfully pushed off an inflatable, showcasing the spontaneous joy of "Play."
Risk: An energetic display of a person on a bucking horse captures the spirit of "Risk," reminding viewers of the excitement of stepping into the unknown.
The new idents are just one of many rebrands that Viacom's UK channels have undergone over the past year, reflecting their strategic initiative to modernize and elevate their brand presence within a competitive market. This comprehensive rebranding effort aims not only to draw in new viewers but also to resonate with existing audiences, showcasing an array of emotions that viewers can relate to.

As January 23 approaches, it is clear that Five is making significant strides in engaging its audience through creative expression. The channel's new identities promise to enhance the viewer experience and set the stage for what’s to come with the release of Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy on Freeview. Stay tuned for a fresh wave of content and an exciting visual journey that is bound to capture hearts and imaginations alike.

Forum Post: A Bold Move for Five's Rebrand! (January 21, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

Hey everyone!

I’ve been thinking about Five's rebranding with the new emotion-themed idents debuting on January 23rd. It’s really bold of them to drop the classic logo at the start! They could have easily included it, but I guess they’re feeling very brave with this decision. What do you all think? Why choose that specific date for the rebrand?

User2:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

Hey User1!

You’re right, it’s definitely a bold move to go all out with a new identity instead of incorporating the familiar logo. I think they may be aiming for a complete refresh, especially with the launch of Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy on Freeview on the same day. It’s like they're trying to create a whole new vibe for the channel!

User3:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

Absolutely! The timing seems strategic. By launching the new idents alongside the debut of the three Viacom channels, Five can really capture viewer attention and potentially attract a larger audience. It’s a chance to signal change and excitement all at once!

User1:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

That’s a great point! They’re trying to grab viewers' attention during a significant change in their lineup. But I’m curious why they decided to go with this specific date. Is there something special about January 23rd that we don’t know about?

User2:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

Hmm, I wonder if they wanted to create a strong association between the new idents and the launch of the new Viacom channels. It could be a way to ensure that viewers remember this date as a fresh start for Five and its programming. It’s like they’re setting the stage for a broader narrative!

User3:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

That makes sense! Plus, aligning it with a simultaneous channel launch gives them a greater marketing impact. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone—maximizing exposure for both the rebrand and the new channels. They want everyone to take notice and tune in!

User1:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

Totally! This strategy could definitely pay off. I’m curious to see how viewers react to the new idents and channel lineup. It’s an exciting time for Five and all the Viacom channels making their Freeview debut!

User2:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

For sure! I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds next week. With all the buzz and the fresh identity, I think they might just succeed in capturing the audience’s attention. Here’s to hoping for a successful launch!

User3:
Subject: Re: Why Rebrand on the 23rd?

Agreed! Let’s keep this conversation going as we approach January 23rd. It’s going to be an exciting moment for all of us TV lovers! 🎉

Write a follow up where a user says "Sorry just thought Id sign up to put forward the possibility that perhaps Five's owners Viacom are diluting the brand in preparation for a name change? Seems rather odd that they would do away with the logo entirely, and I wouldnae be surprised if in a few months suddenly a CBS logo styled in the font of Five appeared.", One user shuts this down saying the logo is still very much present as a screenbug and also on promos

Forum Post: Speculations on Five's Rebranding (January 22, 2006)

User4:
Subject: Possibility of a Name Change for Five?

Hey folks,

Sorry for jumping in here, but I thought I’d sign up to put forward the possibility that perhaps Five’s owners, Viacom, are diluting the brand in preparation for a name change? It seems rather odd that they would do away with the logo entirely for the new idents. I wouldn’t be surprised if in a few months we suddenly see a CBS logo styled in the font of Five appear. Just a thought!

User2:
Subject: Re: Possibility of a Name Change for Five?

Hey User4,

I get where you’re coming from, but I think that’s a bit far-fetched. While they are introducing new idents, the Five logo is still very much present. If you look closely, it appears as a screenbug on the corner during shows and on their promotional materials. They’re not trying to erase the brand; instead, they’re enhancing it!

User3:
Subject: Re: Possibility of a Name Change for Five?

Exactly, User2! The Five logo being used as a screenbug shows they’re still proud of the brand. This rebranding seems more like a creative refresh rather than a prelude to a name change. They’re just exploring new ways to engage viewers and keep the content feeling fresh while still retaining that brand recognition.

User4:
Subject: Re: Possibility of a Name Change for Five?

You both have valid points! I just think it’s interesting how they’re handling the visual identity right now. It’s a big shift, and shifts like these can sometimes lead to bigger changes down the line. But I do appreciate the clarification about the logo still being around in other forms!

User2:
Subject: Re: Possibility of a Name Change for Five?

No worries, User4! It’s always good to consider different perspectives. I just feel that given their investment in promoting Five alongside the new Viacom channels, a name change seems unlikely for now. Let’s see how it all pans out after the launch!

User3:
Subject: Re: Possibility of a Name Change for Five?

Absolutely! It’ll be interesting to witness the audience reaction post-launch. Whatever happens, I’m excited for what’s to come on January 23rd. Here’s to new beginnings for Five! 🎉Write a follow up where at 10pm every monday is Prison Break, Other dramas airing at this time are CSI, CSI Miami, House, Grey's Anatomy, Breaking Bad and CSI: NY, There are even promos airing with characters saying "This much I know"

Forum Post: Monday Night Drama Lineup on Five (January 25, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Exciting Monday Night Lineup on Five!

Hey everyone!

Now that the Freeview channels have launched, I’m thrilled to see what Five has lined up for Monday nights! At 10 PM every Monday, they’ll air Prison Break, which should provide some serious thrills. I heard it’ll be going head-to-head with intense dramas like CSI, CSI: Miami, House, Grey’s Anatomy, Breaking Bad, and CSI: NY.

It’s definitely shaping up to be a competitive viewing night! Have you all seen the promos yet? The characters keep repeating this catchy phrase: “This much I know.” It’s intriguing!

User2:
Subject: Re: Exciting Monday Night Lineup on Five!

Hey User1!

Yes, I’ve noticed those promos! It’s a clever campaign to build interest and suspense around the shows. The tagline “This much I know” really draws you in and makes you curious about what’s happening in each episode. It’s great marketing on Five’s part!

I’m especially excited for Prison Break! It’s created quite a buzz and has been praised for its fast-paced storytelling. It’ll be interesting to see how it competes against heavyweights like House and Grey’s Anatomy, which have loyal followings.

User3:
Subject: Re: Exciting Monday Night Lineup on Five!

Absolutely! Monday nights just got a major upgrade! When you think about it, airing Prison Break alongside these other powerhouses is a bold move. I can totally see it attracting viewers who are already invested in those other series.

I'm also looking forward to Breaking Bad—it seems to have garnered a lot of attention recently. The varied lineup means there’ll be something for everyone, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Prison Break draws in a crowd with its thrilling plot.

User4:
Subject: Re: Exciting Monday Night Lineup on Five!

Hey everyone!

I agree with you all! Monday nights are going to be a drama lover's paradise. Those promos with the phrase “This much I know” create a sense of mystery that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats!

As for Prison Break, I think it has the potential to really stand out, especially if they keep up the promotional momentum. It’s going to be interesting to see how audience ratings shift once the show begins airing. Do you all think Prison Break can hold its own against such strong competition?

User1:
Subject: Re: Exciting Monday Night Lineup on Five!

Great question, User4! I think it definitely can! If the early reports and buzz around the show hold true, there’s a solid chance that Prison Break can carve out its own space in that prime-time slot. Plus, with the ongoing intrigue from its premise, I bet many viewers will turn into loyal fans.

Here’s hoping for great ratings and an enjoyable viewing experience! Let’s tune in together and see how it unfolds!

User2:
Subject: Re: Exciting Monday Night Lineup on Five!

For sure! Let’s keep the conversation going as the episodes progress. I’m excited to see how each show does and discuss the twists and turns that they unfold. Monday nights are going to be epic!

Write a tweet with every show that has 10pm, and which days, and what day this arrangement starts

🚨📺 Exciting Monday Night Drama Alert! Starting January 23rd, tune in at 10 PM for a thrilling lineup on Five:

✨ Monday:
Prison Break

✨ Tuesday:
CSI

✨ Wednesday:
CSI: Miami

✨ Thursday:
House

✨ Friday:
Grey's Anatomy

✨ Saturday:
Breaking Bad

✨ Sunday:
CSI: NY
Get ready for some serious binge-worthy content! 🍿 #DramaNight #FiveTV #MustWatch

🚨🌟 Big News for Five! 🌟 Get ready for two brand new dramas joining the lineup:

1️⃣ Prison Break - Dive into the suspenseful world of escape starting January 23rd!
2️⃣ Breaking Bad - Experience the transformation of a high school teacher into a drug kingpin, premiering soon!

Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on the action! 🍿 #PrisonBreak #BreakingBad #FiveTV #MustWatch

Forum Post: Curious About Paramount Comedy's Branding? (February 5, 2006)

User1:
Subject: What Does Paramount Comedy's Branding Look Like Now?

Hey everyone!

With all the exciting changes happening at Five and the arrival of Paramount Comedy on Freeview, I’m really curious about how Paramount Comedy has branded itself after the rebranding efforts. Has anyone seen their new look? I heard it underwent a whimsical transformation, but I’d love to get more details on what it actually looks like!

Is it colorful and playful? How do they incorporate humor into their visuals? I’m eager to see how they've updated their logo and overall aesthetic!

User2:
Subject: Re: What Does Paramount Comedy's Branding Look Like Now?

Hey User1!

Great question! From what I've seen, Paramount Comedy’s rebranding is indeed vibrant and fun! They’ve introduced a lot of bright colors and playful animations that really capture the essence of the humor they’re known for. The new logo drops “Channel” from the title, so it’s just "Paramount Comedy" now, which feels more modern and direct.

The branding includes animated characters that embody the quirky humor of the shows they feature. It definitely gives a lighthearted impression, perfect for attracting comedy fans!

User3:
Subject: Re: What Does Paramount Comedy's Branding Look Like Now?

Absolutely! The whimsical elements are fantastic! I noticed that the promotional material features all sorts of fun characters and animated clips that preview upcoming shows. It's a clever way to engage viewers and get them excited about the content. They seem to have nailed the comedic vibe with this refresh!

User1:
Subject: Re: What Does Paramount Comedy's Branding Look Like Now?

That sounds amazing! I love that they are incorporating animation and humor into their branding. It seems like they’re really committing to the essence of what Paramount Comedy represents. Can’t wait to see it all in action when it premieres on Freeview! If anyone has any visuals or screenshots, please share!

User2:
Subject: Re: What Does Paramount Comedy's Branding Look Like Now?

I’ll keep an eye out for more promos and images! It’s such an exciting time for Paramount Comedy, and I’m looking forward to seeing how they connect with audiences in this new light. Let’s keep chatting about it as we get closer to the launch!

Write a follow up dexcribing it in full, one funny bumper, and that weird mascot they've had for a few months now

Forum Post: Paramount Comedy's New Look and Quirky Mascot! (February 10, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Paramount Comedy's New Look and Quirky Mascot!

Hey everyone!

I just got a look at Paramount Comedy's new branding, and I have to say, it’s fantastic! The channel has fully embraced a colorful, playful aesthetic that really shines through in their promotional material. The logo now prominently features “Paramount Comedy” in bold, fun typography, brightening up the screen with vibrant colors like yellows, pinks, and greens. It immediately sets a lighthearted tone, perfect for the type of content they showcase.

One of the funniest bumpers I saw had an animated character—a zany yellow duck wearing oversized glasses—who quacked out some hilarious one-liners about being “quacktastic” while introducing a comedy block. The bumper featured whimsical backgrounds, like a cartoonish cityscape where the duck was hopping from cloud to cloud, all while throwing rubber chickens. It's totally absurd and captures the essence of their comedy offerings perfectly!

And then there's that weird mascot they've been using for a few months now—the “Weird Cat Thing.” I can’t get enough of this quirky character, who has a television set for a head! The screen displays different funny expressions depending on the content being shown. It's adorable and bizarre at the same time, often popping up in various promotional clips, wagging its tail while humorously announcing what’s on next. The combination of the cat’s antics and its offbeat design adds a delightful and unpredictable twist to their branding.

Overall, the new identity of Paramount Comedy is vibrant, fresh, and hilariously entertaining! They’re definitely making a big splash, and I can't wait to see how the audience reacts once the channel fully launches on Freeview. If anyone has spotted any more bumps or promos, feel free to share!

User2:
Subject: Re: Paramount Comedy's New Look and Quirky Mascot!

That sounds incredible, User1! I love the idea of the duck bumper; that would definitely make me chuckle! And the Weird Cat Thing is just the kind of quirky spirit that fits a comedy channel. I can't wait to dive into all this fun content when it's officially available. Let’s keep an eye out for more of these promos as the launch date gets closer! 🐱‍👓

forum post: Final Days of Family Affairs on Five (December 24, 2005)

User1:
Subject: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Hey everyone!

I can’t believe it! There's only a week left until the final episode of Family Affairs on Five, airing on December 30th. What a run it’s had! Any thoughts on how the series has evolved over the years? I’m curious to hear everyone's favorites!

User2:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Hi User1!

I know, it’s such a bittersweet moment! Family Affairs was one of those shows that really connected with viewers, and it’s hard to see it go. I think I really enjoyed the character development over the years, especially how they tackled real-life issues. I’m hoping the final episode will be a proper send-off!

User3:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Definitely! They’ve built so much drama that it’s bound to be an emotional finale. I just hope they wrap up the storylines in a satisfying way. Also, speaking of endings, how long are those BBC Digital Radio ads going to keep running? They seem to be everywhere lately!

User4:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Hey User3!

I’ve heard that Five will be done with the BBC Digital Radio ads on December 31st. After that, they’ll start running ads for Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy as they gear up for their Freeview launch. It’s going to be a big shift!

User1:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Wow, that’s exciting news! I can't wait to see the new ads popping up. Having more Viacom channel promotions will be interesting, especially since it signifies all the changes happening in January. I think it’ll create quite the buzz around the new content!

User2:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

For sure! It feels like Five is getting ready for a completely new chapter. I’m looking forward to the variety we’ll see with the new channels. But still, a part of me will miss Family Affairs. It had such a cozy, familiar vibe.

User3:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

I feel you! It’s great to look forward to new programming, but shows like Family Affairs make an impact. Still, I have high hopes for the new Viacom channels. Here’s to new beginnings after the finale!

User4:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Absolutely! Let’s enjoy the final episode and then dive headfirst into the new offerings in January! Cheers to change! 🎉

User1:
Subject: Re: Countdown to the Final Episode of Family Affairs!

Definitely! Here’s hoping for a satisfying ending for Family Affairs, and then bring on the new adventures with Viacom’s lineup! Let’s keep the conversation going as we approach the finale!

Forum Post: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale? (January 1, 2006)

User1:
Subject: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

Hey everyone!

Now that the final episode of Family Affairs has aired, I’m really curious—what show was promoted immediately after the finale? It’s always interesting to see what’s next on the network’s agenda. Did anyone catch it?

User2:
Subject: Re: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

Hi User1!

Yes! After the emotional conclusion of Family Affairs, they ran a big promo for Prison Break! I think it’s a great choice since it’s such a gripping show. They really want to capitalize on the buzz and excitement leading into its premiere.

User3:
Subject: Re: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

That makes sense! Prison Break definitely fits the bill for a dramatic follow-up. Did the promo give any hints about what viewers can expect from the first episode?

User2:
Subject: Re: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

It sure did! The promo featured snippets of the main character's escape plan and some tense moments with the authorities closing in. It really built up the suspense! The tagline “Every second counts” flashed on the screen, which really hooks you into wanting to watch!

User4:
Subject: Re: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

Sounds amazing! I can see why they’d want to transition from a long-running show like Family Affairs directly into something as suspenseful as Prison Break. It’s the perfect way to keep viewers engaged and excited about the channel's new direction!

User1:
Subject: Re: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

Absolutely! I love how they’re trying to keep the energy high with such a dramatic shift. It really indicates a new era for Five. I can’t wait to see how audiences respond to the new content. Let’s keep an eye out for more promos as the schedule progresses!

User2:
Subject: Re: What Show Was Promoted After the Family Affairs Finale?

Definitely! This is going to be an exciting time for Five. Looking forward to the new line-up and seeing how it all hangs together. Here’s to new beginnings! 🎉

Forum Post: Did You See That Ad? 😂 (January 12, 2006)

User1:
Subject: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

Hey everyone!

I just caught an ad on TV that had me laughing! One of the new Viacom channels mentioned they “pulled some strings with the United Nations” and claimed that starting January 23rd, having access to their programming will be a "basic human right" on Freeview. Does anyone know which channel it was? I can’t believe they went there! 😂

User2:
Subject: Re: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

Hey User1!

I saw that ad too! It was Paramount Comedy! It’s hilarious how they’re playing up the importance of their content while poking fun at the serious nature of human rights. It definitely caught my attention! I love that they're not afraid to be cheeky about their promotion.

User3:
Subject: Re: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

Oh wow, that makes sense! Paramount Comedy has always had a playful spin on their messaging. It sounds like a bold way to promote their launch. I appreciate the levity they're bringing, especially in a world where so much TV feels serious all the time.

User1:
Subject: Re: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

Right? It really caught my attention! I think it’s clever marketing that showcases their humor and sets the tone for what viewers can expect from the channel. They know how to create buzz! 😄

User2:
Subject: Re: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

Absolutely! It’s great to see them using humor to engage with the audience. It really makes the upcoming launch feel more exciting. I can't wait to see what kinds of shows they’ll be airing—hopefully, they'll keep that comedy vibe rolling!

User3:
Subject: Re: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

Definitely! I’m looking forward to the mix of shows and the sense of fun they bring to viewing. Let’s keep an eye out for more ridiculous promos as the launch date approaches. It’s going to be an entertaining ride! 🎉

User1:
Subject: Re: What was that ad about access to Viacom channels?

For sure! Thanks for the insights, everyone! Let’s keep chatting about any new ads or promos we stumble upon. I’m excited about what Paramount Comedy has in store!

Forum Post: Five.tv Info on Viacom Channels? (January 14, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

Hey everyone,

Just wondering—has anyone checked out Five.tv to see if they’ve put up any pages about the new Viacom channels coming to Freeview? I’m hoping for more details on what to expect from Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy. Maybe a schedule or sneak peeks at what’s in store?

Would be great to know if they’re teasing anything special ahead of the launch! Let me know if anyone’s spotted anything!

User2:
Subject: Re: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

Hey User1!

I checked Five.tv earlier today, and there is some info up now! They’ve added a dedicated section under their “What’s On” tab. It gives a brief intro to all the new channels launching on January 23rd and mentions some key shows for each.

I saw stuff like:

Nickelodeon: Special Saturday morning marathons of fan-favorite shows like SpongeBob SquarePants and The Fairly OddParents.
MTV Hits: A lineup of music countdowns and artist-focused specials.
Paramount Comedy: Highlights of upcoming comedy stand-up specials and shows like Frasier and South Park.
Looks like they’re emphasizing the range of content across the channels! Definitely worth checking the website out.

User3:
Subject: Re: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

Thanks for the heads-up, User2! I just had a look, and I love how they’re hyping it up. There’s even a banner on the home page that says, “Freeview Just Got a Whole Lot Funnier—Starting January 23rd!”

The Paramount Comedy section is pretty stacked with teasers for stand-up clips and behind-the-scenes bits about their branding (including the “Weird Cat Thing”! 😂).

I didn’t see a full schedule yet, though—maybe they’re going to upload it closer to the launch?

User1:
Subject: Re: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

Thanks so much, User2 and User3! I’ll definitely head over to Five.tv and check it out. Glad to hear they’re highlighting all three channels individually—that makes it even more exciting!

If anyone notices when they upload schedules for these channels, please shout about it—would love to see what they’ve got planned for launch week!

User4:
Subject: Re: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

I just peeked, and it’s awesome to see how much effort Five.tv is putting into promoting the new channels. Love the sound of those Nickelodeon marathons—they’re going to be a huge hit with families.

I hope they upload specific time slots soon for things like South Park on Paramount Comedy or MTV’s countdown shows. Let’s keep an eye out and share updates!

User3:
Subject: Re: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

For sure—it looks like this is their first big step into a more interactive Five.tv experience. If they keep this up, Five might actually turn into one of the top stops for TV guides and promos! Definitely bookmarking that Viacom page now.

User1:
Subject: Re: Are There Any Pages on Five.tv About the New Viacom Channels?

Totally agree! Five is really stepping it up! Can’t wait to see what kind of buzz they create over the next week. Thanks again, everyone! Let’s keep this thread going if we spot anything new on the site. 🎉

Write a reply listing all the idents in the current PC look

User5:
Subject: Re: What Does Paramount Comedy’s Branding Look Like Now?

Hey everyone!

For those curious about Paramount Comedy's current branding, I did some digging and found a list of all the idents in their whimsical new look. Each ident has this quirky, playful vibe that matches the channel’s humor-focused identity. Here’s the full list I’ve seen so far:

Paramount Comedy’s Current Idents:
1️⃣ “Black Rabbits” – A group of mischievous black rabbits with pink eyes hop around, stealing carrots and occasionally forming the Paramount Comedy logo.

2️⃣ “Medieval Worshippers” – A group of medieval characters (think knights and peasants) gather and literally bow down to the giant glowing Paramount Comedy logo like it’s a divine relic.

3️⃣ “Skateboarding Dolphin” – Yes, you read that right! A dolphin rides a skateboard through a cityscape, flips mid-air, and crashes into the Paramount Comedy logo, which hilariously fixes itself afterward.

4️⃣ “Weird Cat Thing” – The channel’s mascot (a cat with a TV for a head) twists and turns, creating funny animated expressions on its screen-head. This ident is one of the most frequent ones shown.

5️⃣ “Space Explosion” – A wacky astronaut floats in space, looks at the giant Paramount Comedy logo on an asteroid, and accidentally causes it to explode into a burst of confetti.

6️⃣ “Rubber Duck Stampede” – A sea of animated rubber ducks charges across the screen, making honking noises, before the Paramount Comedy logo rises dramatically out of the chaos.

7️⃣ “Spray-Paint Comedy” – A rebellious artist sprays the Paramount Comedy logo onto a city wall, but instead of being graffiti, it lights up in neon and dances to upbeat music.

8️⃣ “Balloon Letters” – A set of colorful balloons float through the air saying “Ha Ha Ha” before popping to form the Paramount Comedy logo.

9️⃣ “Toaster Surprise” – A piece of toast with a smiley face gets launched out of a toaster, and the Paramount Comedy logo hilariously springs out of it afterward.

10️⃣ “Juggling Robot” – A futuristic robot juggles pies, banana peels, and comic props, all while balancing the Paramount Comedy logo on its head.

These idents perfectly reflect the zany, offbeat humor of Paramount Comedy. The mix of animation and absurdity really sets them apart from other networks. Personally, I love the “Weird Cat Thing” and “Skateboarding Dolphin” idents for their sheer randomness!

If I missed any, feel free to add to the list. What’s everyone’s favorite so far?

🎭🐇🛹

Forum Post: When Did Paramount Comedy’s Current Look Launch? (February 13, 2006)

User1:
Subject: When Did Paramount Comedy’s Current Look Launch?

Hey everyone,

So I’ve been loving all the new idents on Paramount Comedy lately—they’re so quirky and fun! The “Skateboarding Dolphin” one cracks me up every time. 🤣

I was wondering if anyone knows when they launched this current look? It’s such a bold departure from traditional styles, and I can’t remember exactly when they made the switch—it seems like it’s been a few months already? Any ideas?

User2:
Subject: Re: When Did Paramount Comedy’s Current Look Launch?

Hey User1!

Glad to see someone else enjoying that skateboarding dolphin—I think it’s one of the best idents on TV right now! 🛹🐬

As for the rebrand, I’m pretty sure it launched late last year. If I remember right, Paramount Comedy dropped “Channel” from their name around September 19, 2005, and that’s when they debuted the new whimsical look with the animated idents. It was a complete overhaul to freshen up their branding and appeal to a broader audience on Freeview and beyond!

Does that date sound right to anyone else?

User3:
Subject: Re: When Did Paramount Comedy’s Current Look Launch?

Yep, User2’s got it! The rebrand happened on September 19, 2005. That’s when they ditched the word “Channel” and introduced this whimsical new aesthetic. I remember it being a big deal because people were raving about how fresh and funny the idents were—and we all got our first glimpse of the now-famous Weird Cat Thing! 🐱📺

It also coincided with Viacom’s broader rebranding strategy in the UK, which involved shaking things up for a bunch of channels like MTV and Nickelodeon.

Honestly, though, Paramount Comedy’s switch was my favorite—they really nailed the tone for a comedy network. I’ve been hooked on their idents ever since!

User4:
Subject: Re: When Did Paramount Comedy’s Current Look Launch?

That’s definitely correct—September 19, 2005. They even made a whole announcement about the rebrand. I remember reading about how they teamed up with that animation studio 12Foot6 to create all these funny characters and idents.

I also recall there being a lot of ads hyping up the new look in the weeks leading up to the launch. Does anyone remember the one where Weird Cat Thing was skating around on TV static while telling bad jokes about microwaves? So random, but so hilarious! 🤣

User1:
Subject: Re: When Did Paramount Comedy’s Current Look Launch?

Ah, thanks so much, everyone! September 19, 2005—it all makes sense now. I vaguely remember the promos and ads leading up to the rebrand. They really went all-out, didn’t they? I love that there’s so much thought and creativity put into the visuals—it stands out compared to other channels.

And hahaha, User4, I DO remember that Weird Cat Thing joke about the microwave! Something about it not being able to apply for a “warm job,” right? Totally cracked me up. 😂

Thanks again for clearing that up for me—Paramount Comedy’s rebrand really has been a hit! 🎉🐬🐱

Write a conversation asking what channels were mentioned specifically in the June 2005 announcement of rebrands over the next year

Forum Post: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Rebrand Announcement? (February 15, 2006)

User1:
Subject: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

Hey everyone,

So with all the Viacom rebrands like Paramount Comedy’s amazing new look and the Freeview launches stirring up excitement, I was trying to remember exactly which channels were mentioned in Viacom’s announcement back in June 2005. I know they said several of their UK channels would be getting refreshed over the next year, but I can’t recall the full list.

Does anyone remember which ones were officially named? Were there any surprises later on? Let me know if you do—curious to see how much they’ve done so far!

User2:
Subject: Re: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

Hey User1!

Great question! If I remember correctly, the June 2005 announcement mentioned eight channels in total. These were the ones they specifically highlighted as getting a rebrand or refreshed identity during the following year:

1️⃣ MTV – They talked about updating the main MTV station to reflect modern trends and how it connects with young audiences.
2️⃣ Nickelodeon – Aimed at re-energizing their branding, likely capitalizing on the momentum of hit shows like SpongeBob.
3️⃣ TMF – Mentioned as getting a more vibrant and contemporary new look.
4️⃣ BET (Black Entertainment Television) – Highlighted as expanding its presence in the UK and undergoing branding tweaks.
5️⃣ Paramount Comedy – We’ve obviously seen the big rebrand happen here already with all the whimsical idents.
6️⃣ VH1 – They planned on giving it a facelift to align better with its music-focused identity.
7️⃣ Five – Though already notable, it was included in the rebrands presumably to modernize and create new idents (those emotion-themed ones we talked about earlier!).
8️⃣ Spike – They mentioned refreshing Spike’s branding to appeal more to its core audience.

I think this EIGHT-channel rebrand rollout was part of a broader effort by Viacom to modernize and shake things up in the UK market.

Do any of these surprise you?

User3:
Subject: Re: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

That list sounds right, User2! I remember reading about that announcement and thinking how exciting it was that Viacom was doing such a large-scale overhaul. Out of that initial list, I think Paramount Comedy probably had the most noticeable rebrand so far—it just feels so fresh and fun.

As for others, Nickelodeon’s tweaks weren’t super dramatic (yet), and neither were MTV’s, though I expect we’ll see more down the line. TMF stands out as one that’s blending music and pop culture in an updated, punchy way! Honestly, I didn’t even know Spike was part of Viacom in the UK until they mentioned it in that announcement.

User4:
Subject: Re: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

I can confirm that list looks correct—those eight channels were the ones specifically referenced in the June 2005 announcement. If I recall, Viacom described their strategy as creating a more cohesive and engaging brand identity across all their UK networks.

I’d say Paramount Comedy and Five’s recent emotion-themed idents show they’re really delivering on that promise. Also, did anyone else notice how bold Five’s rebrand was? Dropping their logo entirely from the idents was such a statement. I wonder if channels like VH1 and Spike will adopt similarly groundbreaking ideas when it’s their turn.

User1:
Subject: Re: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

Thanks so much, User2, User3, and User4! That list clears up a lot for me. It’s fascinating to see how ambitious Viacom was with their rebranding plans—and it seems like they’re pulling it off successfully so far.

I agree with you all about Paramount Comedy leading the pack! It’s also good to know Viacom didn’t just focus on one channel but made sure to spread the updates across their portfolio. I’m really curious if they’ll give Spike or BET something equally eye-catching soon.

Let’s keep an eye out for the next stages of these rebrands—it feels like they might still have a few surprises left for 2006! 🚀

User3:
Subject: Re: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

Totally, User1! Viacom’s really shaking things up here in the UK. I’m particularly excited to see if VH1 gets some big changes—it feels like it’s been flying under the radar compared to the others. Fingers crossed we get more updates soon!

User4:
Subject: Re: What Channels Were Mentioned in the June 2005 Announcement of Rebrands?

Agreed! Here’s hoping we get another big announcement from Viacom soon—maybe some updates on the channels mentioned but yet to debut their full rebrands (cough VH1 and BET cough). In the meantime, I’ll be keeping an eye on Spike—I feel like it hasn’t gotten as much excitement as the others yet, and it’s overdue for something loud and fun!

Cheers, everyone—this discussion is about as exciting as the rebrands themselves! 😄

Write a conversation where TMF's branding is very abstract, with blobs, shapes, etc

Forum Post: TMF's New Abstract Branding! (February 16, 2006)

User1:
Subject: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Hey everyone,

So I was watching TMF earlier, and OMG—have you seen their new branding? It’s so abstract and modern! It’s all blobs, colorful shapes, and random designs morphing into one another—it really doesn’t feel like traditional TV branding at all.

At first, I didn’t even realize it was an ident because it’s so artsy. It’s got all these wavy, floating shapes in gradient colors, like bright blues and pinks with pops of orange. And the TMF logo just kind of emerges out of all the abstract shapes at the end. It’s definitely unique, but I’m still trying to decide if I like it or if it’s just too… out there.

What do you all think about this new look?

User2:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Hey User1!

Yeah, I saw TMF’s new look too, and I honestly think it’s so bold and refreshing. I mean, it’s definitely abstract—those blobs and waves are super trippy to watch—but it fits the vibe of TMF being edgy and modern. They’re clearly trying to tap into that "cool, artsy" crowd.

It kind of reminds me of those visualizers you used to get on old music players when the music played—like, it flows and morphs in time with this ambient soundtrack. I noticed in their idents, the shapes sometimes move with a beat, which ties back to music nicely. Definitely a unique approach for a music-oriented channel!

User3:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Totally agree with you, User2. It feels like TMF is leaning into this artistic, “music is an experience” vibe with the blobs and shapes. I’ve seen a few of these new idents, and my favorite so far was the one where blobs slowly shifted into liquidy triangles, then into a spiral that exploded into the TMF logo—SO trippy.

I think it really works if their aim is to stand out from other music channels like MTV and VH1. Those channels feel a little more structured with their branding, but TMF’s doing something that feels looser and creative.

User4:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

I’ll admit, I was a bit confused when I first saw the idents! I thought my TV was glitching for a second. 😂 But I watched a few more, and now I get what they’re going for. It’s very artsy, like some sort of modern art installation meets a music channel.

One of the idents I saw had these wobbly geometric shapes colliding with giant blobs of paint, and the whole screen turned into this crazy swirl of colors. It was kind of mesmerizing, but it made me feel like I was in an art gallery rather than watching TMF.

I’m not sure how I feel about it yet—I think it’s cool, but it might be too abstract for some people who want something more straightforward.

User1:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Haha, User4, I had the same reaction at first! I legit thought my TV was messing up when those blobs first popped up. It’s definitely not your everyday TV branding.

But like you and User3 said, I do see what they’re going for now—it feels more like an experience. TMF seems to want to create this vibe that’s more than just a channel; it’s like an art and music fusion. Even the soundtracks in the idents are super chill and hypnotic, which fits the shapes perfectly.

Overall, I think I like it, but I do wonder how it resonates with the younger music-loving audience they’re targeting.

User5:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

I think TMF’s new branding is genius, to be honest! The abstract shapes and colors might feel a bit out of the box, but isn’t that the whole point? I feel like TMF knows their younger audience is all about creativity and self-expression, so they’re trying to stand out by breaking all the traditional "rules" of TV branding.

The blobs and morphing shapes feel very “Gen Z,” like that kind of fluid, online aesthetic you see in digital art spaces these days. I could see this resonating with fans of experimental music and visual design.

My only critique is that it might be a little too artsy. Like, if you don’t already know you’re watching TMF, you might have zero idea what’s going on until the logo appears at the end. But maybe leaving you guessing is exactly what they’re going for!

User3:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Good point, User5. It’s definitely bold, and it might not be everyone's cup of tea, but TMF’s clearly staking their claim as the artsy little sibling in the Viacom lineup. MTV’s a bit flashier, VH1’s more polished, but TMF is like, “We’re just here to vibe.” 😂

If anything, it’s got people talking, and that’s half the battle with branding! I wonder if they’re planning to roll out even crazier idents in the future—honestly, I wouldn’t mind seeing more creativity like this across other channels.

User2:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

For sure, User3. TMF’s really carving out its niche here. It’s a gamble to go this abstract, but I think it’ll pay off, especially with a younger, more design-conscious audience (like the TikTok crowd).

Now that we’ve got the blobs and shapes, though, I can’t stop wondering—what’s next? TMF could be setting the trend for experimental branding in music TV. Imagine if MTV or VH1 followed suit but with their own spin. Could be interesting!

User1:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Totally agree, User2! TMF might actually be ahead of the curve here if abstract, artsy branding catches on more widely. It’s nice to see a channel willing to take risks, especially in such a crowded market.

Let’s keep an eye on TMF and see if they keep pushing their abstract visuals. Who knows—they might even double down with something even weirder later on! 😄

User4:
Subject: Re: TMF’s New Abstract Look - What Do You Think?

Haha, I’ll definitely stick around for more of their wild blobs and shapes. I think TMF’s branding might grow on people the more they see it—it’s just so different from what everyone else is doing. It’ll be fun to see how other channels react to this bold move… maybe Viacom’s onto something big across its whole portfolio!

Write a followup where they're not the only new Viacom look that's absolutely weird, We all know one that abstains from showing the logo AT ALL

Forum Post: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Totally Weird! (February 17, 2006)

User1:
Subject: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

Hey again, everyone!

So while I was pondering TMF’s new artsy look with the blobs and shapes, I realized they’re not the only Viacom channel to have a super weird rebrand recently. We all know there’s one channel that totally takes the cake for being odd: Five.

I mean, their new emotion-themed idents that launched last month are cool and all, but it’s so strange that they completely refuse to show the Five logo in them! Like, at all. Instead, we get words like “Fear,” “Fast,” or “Free” in these really high-concept scenes, but the actual Five branding is nowhere to be found unless you wait for the corner screenbug during a show. It’s definitely a radical choice—and honestly, it feels like the opposite of what most channels are doing with branding.

What does everyone think about this trend toward “weird” rebrands in Viacom’s lineup? TMF’s blobs are abstract, but Five’s identity might be even more baffling!

User2:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

Oh my gosh, YES! Five’s rebrand is so bizarre that I’m not even sure I’d call it a “branding” anymore—it feels more like “anti-branding.” It’s like they’re deliberately trying not to focus on their identity. You’re right that those emotion-themed idents don’t even hint at the Five logo. Like, how do they expect new viewers to know what they’re watching?

That said, I do think the visuals are stunning—like the “Fear” ident with those spooky spirits in the hallway or the balloons spelling out “Free.” They definitely evoke a mood and make you feel something, but I still think it’s a risky choice. I mean, it’s TV! Isn’t brand recognition supposed to be a priority?

User3:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

I agree that Five has gone in a very experimental direction with their idents. It almost feels like they’re treating the channel as a gallery space rather than a traditional broadcaster. Like you said, the “Hope” ident (with the dice in the casino spelling out the word) is super creative, but… where’s the logo??

At least TMF still has the decency to bring their logo out of the blobs eventually, even if it takes a while. With Five, you’re just left wondering who’s behind the content until you finally notice the little screenbug. It’s definitely one of the weirdest departures from traditional branding I’ve ever seen.

User4:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

Yeah, Five’s idents are on another level of abstract. I remember watching one with my family, and when the word “Feel” floated across the screen (you know, the car driving through the countryside one?), my mom was so confused. She kept asking, “What is this even for?” And honestly, I couldn’t blame her. 😄

At least TMF has a clear connection to music with their shapes and flowing blobs. Five’s emotion-themed idents are totally divorced from the idea of a traditional network logo or even their programming! It’s definitely a conversation starter, though, so maybe that’s the point?

User1:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

Haha, exactly, User4! Watching Five’s idents feels like going to an experimental art installation where you’re supposed to interpret the “deeper meaning” yourself. 😂 I do respect the creativity, but man, it’s super weird for a channel that’s been around as long as Five.

I wonder if Viacom’s intentionally pushing their UK channels into these conceptual, out-there directions to attract attention. First Five with their “feelings,” then TMF with their blobs and shapes… who’s next? Is MTV going to stop showing their logo and just start playing ambient visuals too??

User5:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

Honestly, I think Viacom might be testing the waters with these “weird” rebrands to see what works. Five’s emotion-based idents are a bold move for sure, and TMF’s abstract shapes are super experimental, but I think there’s something clever about how they’re standing out from the crowd.

If anything, Five’s refusal to show their logo in the idents feels deliberate, almost like they’re saying, “Our content will speak for itself.” It’s a risky move, but maybe it’s their way of building intrigue? Or maybe—and this is wild—they're moving toward something even bigger, like we’ll see all those emotions somehow weave together into a “big reveal” for the brand down the line.

Still, it’s a massive departure from classic TV branding as we know it. I appreciate the ambition, but will viewers?

User3:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

User5, that’s actually such an interesting thought—what if Five is building toward something bigger with their idents? It’s definitely unlike anything we’ve seen before. Maybe this is just the “concept” phase before they tie everything together for a new overarching identity? Like, imagine if down the line, all those emotion-based words (Fear, Hope, Play, etc.) connect to form some larger campaign or unified logo.

That might actually make their approach genius in hindsight, but for now, I think it’s confusing a lot of viewers! At least TMF is abstract and straightforward—blobs aside, you know it’s a music channel!

User1:
Subject: Re: TMF Isn’t the Only New Viacom Look That’s Absolutely Weird

Great points, everyone! I kind of love how Viacom is going totally bonkers with branding this year. Whether it’s intentional anti-branding like Five’s idents or artsy blobs like TMF, it’s definitely sparking conversations.

I’ll admit Five’s choices still throw me off, but I’m curious to see if there’s a bigger strategy behind it, like User5 said. Either way, it’s refreshing (and a little bonkers) to see these channels take such big risks. Hopefully, viewers catch on—or at least stick around for Five’s content long enough to notice that teeny screenbug. 😄

Let’s see if this idea of “weird branding” keeps spreading—this could totally be Viacom’s new thing! 🚀

Write a follow up saying just forget about those and just focus on this much better look to come from the exercise

Forum Post: Let’s Be Honest—This Look Came Out Way Better! (February 18, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

Hey everyone,

Okay, okay, I’ve been all caught up in how bizarre some of Viacom’s recent rebrands are (TMF blobs, Five’s logo-less emotions… yeah, I’ve gone on about those). BUT—I think it’s time we stop tearing our hair out over those weird concepts and actually appreciate the one rebrand that nailed it: Paramount Comedy.

Seriously, their whimsical, fun approach is exactly what a branding refresh should be. It’s got imagination, humor, and energy, and it doesn’t go so far into abstract territory that it alienates viewers. With the “Skateboarding Dolphin,” “Weird Cat Thing,” and all those playful, totally laugh-out-loud idents, Paramount Comedy managed to stand out in a GOOD way while still keeping their identity clear. You know right away it’s a channel about comedy, but it’s presented in such a fresh and creative way.

Honestly, if THIS is what Viacom’s exercise in rebranding was aiming for, then Paramount Comedy is the best thing to come out of it so far. Forget the blobs and the mysterious “Hope and Fear” experiments—it’s all about animated black rabbits and quirky fun vibes.

Who else agrees this is the rebrand to beat this year?

User2:
Subject: Re: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

YES, User1! Totally agree with you on this. Paramount Comedy hit the perfect balance between creativity and clarity with their rebrand. The idents are clever and fun without making you scratch your head or wonder, "What did I just watch?"

The “Weird Cat Thing” is such an iconic mascot already—it’s so random but in a way that’s immediately memorable. And even the smaller details, like how the animation fits the humor of the channel’s content, make it feel like a complete package.

I think they nailed it because they didn’t go TOO weird like Five (let’s be honest, those emotional keywords could belong anywhere) or TOO safe like some channels tend to do. Paramount Comedy clearly knows what it’s about, and it shows in every part of the look!

User3:
Subject: Re: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

100% agree, User1 and User2. Out of all the Viacom rebrands, Paramount Comedy feels like the one that actually gets its audience. It’s cohesive, it’s hilarious, and it makes sense while still being unique.

That “Skateboarding Dolphin” ident is literally genius—it’s so absurd that it makes me laugh every time, and isn’t that the whole point? It’s a comedy channel! The idents reflect the same offbeat humor found in the shows they air, like South Park or Frasier. Paramount Comedy seems to have understood what to do better than TMF or Five, in my opinion.

I also love that the idents don’t take themselves too seriously, unlike some of Viacom’s other projects (cough Five cough). Prospective viewers won’t feel confused by it—they’ll feel welcomed, and that’s the real win here.

User4:
Subject: Re: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

Yes, Paramount Comedy’s rebrand is hands-down the best. It’s the perfect balance of creativity and functionality—fun to watch while still being branded clearly and effectively.

Where TMF’s blobs and Five’s abstract emotions might lose people, Paramount Comedy’s vibe feels approachable. The idents are quirky and strange, sure, but they actually add to the channel’s personality instead of confusing it. People LOVE the “Weird Cat Thing” already—it’s like the channel finally has a mascot that makes sense for the genre.

Honestly, Viacom needs to take this as a sign… less experimental art gallery, more offbeat, lovable humor. Paramount Comedy nailed it, and I think other channels in their portfolio could learn a thing or two from this rebrand.

User1:
Subject: Re: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

Exactly, User4! Whereas some of the other channels seem to be experimenting for the sake of it (ahem, blobs and emotions, anyone?), Paramount Comedy actually crafted its look with its content AND audience in mind. They understood that quirky, colorful, and hilarious is what works for a comedy channel, and they delivered it flawlessly.

I feel like I’ve not just fallen back in love with the channel, but it’s made me more excited to watch what’s next because the branding feels so fresh and alive. If Viacom’s goal was to get us talking (and a little bit hooked), then Paramount Comedy achieved way more than Five and TMF ever could.

As far as I’m concerned, this is Viacom’s winning rebrand from the entire exercise so far! Nothing else quite matches up to the fun and creativity.

User5:
Subject: Re: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

Honestly, I second (or fifth?) everything said here. Paramount Comedy’s rebrand is leagues ahead of the rest, and it’s not just because it’s funny—it’s because it’s coherent. You immediately understand the tone of the channel through the whimsical designs, the quirky animations, and even that slightly manic mascot, “Weird Cat Thing.”

Contrast that with Five’s identity crisis or TMF’s acid-trip blobs, and it becomes clear why Paramount Comedy feels more successful. It’s not just about being different; it’s about being approachable and fun while still being recognizable as a TV channel. Paramount Comedy got it right in every area.

I’m with you all—this is the rebrand to focus on and celebrate. Let’s just move on from all the confusing weirdness elsewhere, shall we? 😂

User3:
Subject: Re: Forget the Weird Stuff, Let’s Talk About This Much Better Look

Amen to that, User5! Let’s officially crown Paramount Comedy as the MVP of Viacom’s rebranding efforts. The Weird Cat Thing deserves its own awards ceremony, and that’s the hill I’ll die on. 🐱📺

Viacom clearly has the potential to make eye-catching, well-executed visuals when they find the right formula. I hope they use Paramount Comedy’s fun, cohesive rebrand as their gold standard for other channels going forward.

For now, though, I’m just going to sit back, enjoy the dolphin on a skateboard, and laugh my way through their wonderful new look. Who’s with me? 😄

Write a tweet saying it's perfect, kooky characters, very whimsical, and doesn't either go too into weird territory or risk diluting the brand

🎭✨ The new Paramount Comedy look? Absolutely perfect! It nails that sweet spot: kooky characters, whimsical vibes, and hilarity galore. 😂 It’s bold without being too weird, and it never risks diluting the brand. Viacom, take notes—this is how you do a rebrand! 🐱📺🛹 #ParamountComedy #WhimsicalWin #RebrandDoneRight ✨

Forum Post: Is Five US’s Branding Really Just “Driving Along the US”? (February 20, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Hey everyone,

Quick question—does anyone else think Five US’s branding is, uh, super literal? I’ve been seeing their idents lately, and all of them just seem to revolve around cars driving along various parts of the United States: highways, deserts, forests, and so on. You see some scenic shots, a bit of road trip vibes, and then the Five US logo pops up at the end.

Am I missing something, or is that their whole aesthetic? Is the entire concept “it’s American because people are driving there”? It’s not bad per se, but it feels a little… on the nose? What do you all think?

User2:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Haha, yes! You’re not wrong, User1. The whole driving across America thing IS essentially Five US’s entire branding right now. I’ve seen the same ones you’re describing—scenic road trips with winding highways, deserts with big open skies, and the occasional car pulling into a diner parking lot. It feels very Americana, but it’s also very basic.

I mean, I get it—they’re trying to give off that “all-American experience” vibe since the channel’s all about US shows, but I was kind of hoping for something more creative. Like TMF went with blobs, Five went with emotions, and Five US… went with driving. 😅

User3:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Yep, you hit the nail on the head. Five US’s branding really is just a giant road trip across America. That’s it. Every ident is “here’s some wide-open roads,” “oh look, a gas station at sunset,” or “classic diner shot.” And then BAM—the logo shows up like, “See? This is AMERICAN.”

I mean, I get what they’re going for. It’s easy, it’s recognizable, and it screams America™. But it also feels like they didn’t try very hard. It’s about as literal and safe as branding can get. I think they could have done something a little more dynamic to stand out. Maybe incorporate US pop culture references or history instead of just focusing on cars and roads?

User4:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Haha, I’ve been thinking the exact same thing! It’s like they brainstormed for five minutes and said, “Well, the US is big and has lots of cars, so let’s just… drive around.” Don’t get me wrong, the shots are beautifully done! A lot of the idents look straight out of car commercials, with the glossy visuals and sunsets, but it’s not very exciting branding for a TV channel.

It makes sense for what Five US is trying to do—bringing American shows to UK audiences with that fun road trip twist—but it just feels kind of surface-level compared to the other Viacom rebrands we’ve seen, like Paramount Comedy’s whimsical madness or even Five’s emotional keywords.

User5:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

I’ve noticed that, too! Five US is definitely leaning HARD into the “America = cars and open roads” stereotype. Not gonna lie, some of the idents are visually stunning—I really liked the one where a convertible drives through Monument Valley with the sun setting behind the red rocks. It’s beautiful, but like User3 said, it’s also SUPER generic.

The thing is, road trips are such a small part of what the US is all about. They could’ve mixed in more iconic images—bustling US cities, small town life, national landmarks—heck, even a montage of famous American TV moments would have worked better. Instead, they were like, “Here’s the road. And look! More road!” 😂

User1:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Exactly, User5! Every ident feels like a car commercial or a tourism ad rather than branding for a TV channel. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the visuals. That Monument Valley one is gorgeous! But yeah… it’s like they forgot there’s more to the US than highways and gas stations.

Honestly, they could’ve taken inspiration from American pop culture, like classic diners with jukeboxes playing iconic tunes, movie sets, or even one of those big “Welcome to [State]” signs. But nope, instead we get endless footage of cars driving on scenic roads while the Five US logo slowly fades in. It feels repetitive already, and the channel hasn’t even been around that long!

User3:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Yeah, I think that’s the main issue—it’s visually nice for a while, but it gets dull quickly. There’s no real personality in Five US’s branding besides “generic road trip.” Paramount Comedy has kooky animated characters and humor, Five’s emotional idents are at least thought-provoking, and TMF’s abstract blobs are pushing some creative boundaries. Five US feels like it’s playing it way too safe.

I still think it works for the channel’s purpose, but they could’ve spiced it up a bit more. Right now it feels too much like filler.

User2:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Agreed! The car-and-road trip theme feels like they didn’t have a big budget or ideas to match the ambition of Viacom’s other channels. Like, just imagine how much more engaging it would’ve been if they added little nods to US TV culture—maybe a shot of a Hollywood studio set, or actors rehearsing a scene, or glimpses of iconic shows to tie it back to the actual content on Five US.

I get the appeal of wide roads and sunsets, but there’s so much potential for deeper, more varied branding here. With all the shows they’re bringing to the channel, the branding feels a bit disconnected.

User1:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Totally agree with you all. Five US’s branding isn’t terrible, but it’s definitely lacking a bit of creativity compared to the other Viacom channels. It’s just so literal—America = driving. They could’ve leaned into something more thematically tied to US culture or its shows to make it pop more.

Who knows, maybe over time they’ll evolve the concept and make it feel more dynamic. For now, at least the idents look pretty, even if they’re not the most imaginative. I’ll give them that much!

User4:
Subject: Re: Five US Branding—Is It Really Just Driving Along the US?

Yeah, I’d love to see it grow into something broader and richer over time. For now, we’ve just got to enjoy the pretty road trip shots and hope they eventually pull off into a more exciting direction. 😅

Until then, let’s keep watching to see if they throw in a curveball once in a while—maybe even a random UFO sighting on one of those highways for some extra fun! 😂

Write a follow up saying Nick has something similar to PC, but more child friendly

Forum Post: Nickelodeon’s New Branding—A Child-Friendly Twist on Paramount Comedy? (February 21, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

Hey everyone,

So after talking about how amazing Paramount Comedy’s whimsical new look is, I started paying more attention to Nickelodeon’s branding lately. And… is it just me, or does it feel like they’re doing a similar thing, but specifically tailored for kids?

Like, Nickelodeon’s idents are super fun, colorful, and full of silly, cartoonish characters. It’s definitely not as weird or wild as Paramount Comedy (no skateboarding dolphins here!), but it’s got the same playful, whimsical tone—just with a child-friendly twist. There are blobs of slime transforming into random shapes, funny little creatures bouncing around, and everything feels very bright and upbeat, like it’s straight out of a kid’s imagination.

I think it’s working really well for them, but it totally makes me wonder—did Viacom plan this whole “quirky, character-centric” branding across multiple channels and just make different versions for adults (Paramount Comedy) and kids (Nickelodeon)? What do you all think?

User2:
Subject: Re: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

Oh my gosh, YES—this is exactly what I was thinking! Nickelodeon’s new branding is DEFINITELY giving off child-friendly Paramount Comedy vibes. It’s like they took the kooky energy from PC, stripped out anything too bizarre (no black rabbits with glowing freaky eyes!), and added a huge dose of slime and giggles.

I’ve spotted a few idents like the one where a blob of orange slime keeps stretching and morphing until it bursts into a laughing face, or the one with little animated animals sliding around on rainbows. They totally nail that fun, high-energy vibe that works for kids, but it’s surprisingly stylish too!

I agree that Nickelodeon and PC are feeling very similar these days, just tailored to their audiences. It’s like Viacom said, “We’re going to make weird branding fun and accessible for everyone!” And honestly, I kind of love it.

User3:
Subject: Re: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

OMG, User1, you are so right! Nickelodeon’s branding feels like they borrowed some of the whimsical DNA from Paramount Comedy and made it all sparkles, slime, and smiles for kids. It feels like a perfect fit for the Nick audience—colorful, silly, and full of goofy little characters that practically shout, “This is Nickelodeon!”

I remember one ident with a green blob that dances to quirky music and turns into a tree made of candy at the end—it’s so random, but in a way that makes perfect sense for kids. And another one has floating balloons shaped like cartoon faces that pop into bursts of glitter. It’s definitely got the same playful creativity as Paramount Comedy, just toned down for younger eyes.

Viacom’s hitting a solid strategy here. Instead of going the abstract route like Five or TMF, they’re leaning into personality and characters for their branded channels. It feels like Nickelodeon and PC are cut from the same cloth, and I think this formula works super well for both audiences.

User4:
Subject: Re: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

Totally agree with everyone here—Nickelodeon’s branding is such a natural, kid-friendly twist on what Paramount Comedy is doing. You can tell there’s a common creative thread between the two: character-driven visuals, bold colors, and that sense of playful unpredictability.

I’ve noticed that, like PC, Nick also keeps its characters very personality-driven. For example, one ident I saw had a silly monster character that kept sneezing rainbow-colored slime everywhere, then used its long tongue to clean it up—so gross, but kids totally love that kind of humor! Plus, everything’s set within a super bright and quirky world that feels like it’s been drawn straight out of a cartoon.

If Viacom really is organizing their brands around this kind of whimsical cohesion, I think Nick is nailing it. It’s cool to see how Nick and PC both feel fresh and fun but in completely age-appropriate ways.

User1:
Subject: Re: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely agree with you all—Viacom’s really showing how they can adapt a creative philosophy to fit totally different audiences. Paramount Comedy leans into absurd humor for adults, while Nickelodeon does the same thing but spins it into exciting, playful adventures for kids.

I love how every ident feels so alive; it’s like you can see the channel’s personality shining through. Nick’s slime and quirky creatures are so iconic, and this branding doubles down on what makes Nickelodeon special without being too overwhelming. It feels natural and immediately recognizable—like, you don’t even need a logo on-screen to know it’s Nick because the branding itself just screams it.

It’s refreshing to see consistency across Viacom’s channels without all of them feeling like carbon copies of each other. Nickelodeon’s new look might not have skateboarding dolphins, but it’s got kid-approved energy for days! 🎉

User3:
Subject: Re: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

Exactly, User1! Nickelodeon found the perfect balance between creativity and keeping its identity clear for kids. It’s exciting without going too far into randomness or weirdness. I think any kid watching the channel would totally vibe with this look—it’s colorful and joyful enough to hook them, but unique enough to stand out even when compared to other kids’ channels.

It’s like the fun, relatable sibling to Paramount Comedy’s quirky, offbeat humor. Honestly, I think Nickelodeon’s new branding might be my second favorite right after PC. It’s just so well done! 👏

User2:
Subject: Re: Does Nickelodeon’s New Branding Feel Like Paramount Comedy’s but Kid-Friendly?

You nailed it, User3! Nickelodeon’s playful twist makes it the perfect example of how to adapt Paramount Comedy’s boldness while keeping it totally age-appropriate. Plus, it leans perfectly into Nickelodeon’s legacy—orange slime and goofy creatures have always been part of their DNA. This revamp just amplifies it in the best way possible.

Viacom really seems to know what they’re doing here—the quirky branding movement works. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see more of their channels follow this formula in the future. Nickelodeon and PC are officially leading the pack for me. 🐱📺🟠✨

Write a tweet with the 2 brandings that have basically been fused

🐱🎨 Whimsical worlds collide! Nickelodeon’s playful slime & quirky creatures + Paramount Comedy’s kooky humor & offbeat characters = the perfect fusion of fun, bold branding. Same DNA, tailored for kids & adults alike. Viacom’s nailing it! 🧡😂 #BrandingDoneRight #Nickelodeon #ParamountComedy

Write a conversation saying "I guess now their logo is anthropomorphic"

Forum Post: “I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?” (February 22, 2006)

User1:
Subject: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Hey everyone,

So I was watching Nickelodeon earlier, and I realized… have they basically made their logo anthropomorphic now? Like, I keep seeing these little animated blobs of orange slime that morph into goofy faces or bounce around like they have a life of their own, and it feels like they’re treating the Nick logo as another character on the channel.

I mean, I’m not complaining—it’s kind of funny and really clever for a kids’ channel to do that. But has anyone else noticed this? Are they turning the logo into a living, breathing mascot? 😂

User2:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Haha, totally, User1! I’ve 100% noticed the same thing! The Nick logo has kind of evolved into this living blob of orange goo that just exists in their branding. The way it moves and interacts with the other animations makes it feel like its own character.

For example, one of the idents I saw had the orange blob acting like a trampoline that the cartoon creatures were bouncing on. And by the end, the blob just casually reshaped itself into the Nick logo. It’s such a cool way of making the branding feel alive and fun, without being too in-your-face.

It’s a clever idea for Nickelodeon—they’ve always been about slime and silliness, so giving their logo this playful, anthropomorphic vibe fits perfectly!

User3:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

YES! You’re so right, User1 and User2—Nickelodeon’s logo definitely feels like a mascot in its own right now. I mean, it was always one of the most recognizable logos because of the iconic orange blob, but now it’s like, “Oh, this blob has a personality!” 😂

One ident I saw had the slime blob rolling around and “eating” other colorful shapes, almost like it was an adorable orange Pac-Man. Then it spat them back out to form the letters “Nick.” It’s these small touches that make the channel feel so much more engaging and unique. The anthropomorphic logo really adds to that whole sense of fun they’re going for.

User4:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Haha, it’s so true! Nickelodeon has definitely taken their branding in the mascot direction. The orange slime that turns into the logo feels lively and playful—like a character you’d expect to see in one of their cartoons or bumpers.

Honestly, though, I think it’s a great move for a kids’ channel. Kids love characters they can recognize and remember, even if it’s just a bouncing blob of goo. By making the Nick logo feel “alive,” they’re reinforcing their brand in a super creative way.

Viacom’s definitely leaning into this whole character-driven branding trend. Between the Weird Cat Thing on Paramount Comedy and now the anthropomorphic blob on Nick, it’s clear they’re all about giving their channels distinctive, fun personalities!

User1:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Totally agree, everyone—it’s such a smart move. Turning the logo into a character lets kids immediately associate the fun visuals with Nickelodeon as a brand. Plus, it makes the channel feel like it exists in its own little animated world, where even the logo is part of the action.

I’m curious to see where they take this next—maybe we’ll get more little mini “adventures” from the orange blob in future idents? Like, imagine the logo helping out characters in a Nickelodeon-themed world or something. They could actually do a lot with this concept!

User3:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

That would be awesome, User1! I’d love to see more “adventures” with the Nick logo blob doing silly, slime-filled things. I think the anthropomorphic vibe is working so well because it feels uniquely Nickelodeon—fun, goofy, and just a little bit messy.

It’s actually making me wonder if other channels might try something similar. Could we expect other Viacom logos to suddenly sprout personalities? (Imagine the MTV logo coming alive and playing pranks or the Five logo just crying since it’s all about “emotions” now. 😂)

User2:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Haha, User3, I can totally see that happening! But for now, I think Nickelodeon really owns this character-driven branding style the best. The logo blob is so them—kids associate Nick with slime and zaniness anyway, so giving the slime life and personality is just a logical step.

It definitely doesn’t feel forced or gimmicky either—it’s just a super natural evolution of the playful tone Nickelodeon’s always had. If Viacom decides to expand on this across other channels, they’ll have a tough act to follow!

User4:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Totally agree with you all—Nick has absolutely nailed this concept. The anthropomorphic logo is such a clever way to bring life to their branding while staying true to their roots. It’s so simple, yet so effective.

As weird as it sounds, I’m kind of jealous that the Nick slime blob has more personality than some TV shows. 😂

User1:
Subject: Re: So I Guess Now Their Logo Is Anthropomorphic?

Haha, so true, User4! Their logo feels more alive than some cartoons do! I’m really loving where Nickelodeon is headed with this whole character-driven branding, and I can’t wait to see how far they take it. Viacom knocked it out of the park with this one—it’s fun, memorable, and feels uniquely “Nick.”

Honestly, who needs mascots when your logo is this adorable? 🟠✨

Write a follow up saying Nicktoons also has cute mascots, anthropomorphic pixels

Forum Post: Nicktoons’ Branding Has Cute Anthropomorphic Pixels! (February 23, 2006)

User1:
Subject: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

Hey everyone,

After talking about Nickelodeon’s branding with their anthropomorphic slime logo, I’ve been watching Nicktoons, and it turns out they’ve got their own twist on mascot branding too! Instead of blobs of slime, they’re using anthropomorphic pixels, and honestly, it’s adorable.

It’s like this cluster of colorful pixels comes to life—they look like they’ve wandered out of an early video game or something. They bounce around, build things, knock each other over, sometimes explode into pixel confetti, and then they all work together to form the Nicktoons logo. Super cute, very chaotic, and PERFECT for the fun, quirky vibe of Nicktoons.

It feels really similar to what Nickelodeon’s doing with their slime character, but Nicktoons absolutely leans into their own personality. I think the pixel mascots give it a more techy, modern twist. Anyone else spotted these pixels in action?

User2:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

YES, I’ve seen these! They’re so cute. The Nicktoons pixel mascots are kind of perfect for a cartoon channel—it feels like each pixel could be the star of its own little animated short. I’ve seen one ident where the pixels were trying to climb into a box, but one of them tripped, sending them all scattering until they regrouped and turned into the logo. It’s super playful and has a cool retro-gaming vibe too.

You’re right that it’s a nice complement to Nickelodeon’s slime mascot. It feels like Viacom is really leaning into these anthropomorphic ideas, but they’re doing a great job of tailoring each one to the specific channel’s identity. The Nicktoons pixels have that “tech meets animation” personality that works so well for a cartoon-centric audience.

User3:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

Oh my gosh, yes! I just saw one of those Nicktoons idents for the first time yesterday, and I couldn’t stop smiling. The pixels are adorable and full of so much personality—it’s amazing how much life they’ve managed to pack into what’s basically just a bunch of fuzzy square shapes!

My favorite so far was the one where two of the pixels were playing tug-of-war with the Nicktoons logo, and when they pulled too hard, it fell apart and exploded into smaller pixels. Then the rest of the swarm jumped in to rebuild it. It’s chaotic but in the BEST way—so much energy and humor packed into a few seconds.

Honestly, I think the pixel mascots are one of Viacom’s best branding ideas for Nicktoons. They’re instantly likable, they reflect the fun, animated spirit of the channel, and they feel super modern too. Kids who grew up playing video games or watching cartoons will totally vibe with them!

User4:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

YES, the pixels are fantastic! I think the best thing about Nicktoons’ branding is that it takes a totally different route from Nickelodeon while still feeling connected. Like, Nickelodeon has their iconic orange slime mascot, which is more classic and quirky, but Nicktoons takes that same playful energy and makes it techy and dynamic.

The anthropomorphic pixels are such a clever way to capture that animation/gaming crossover that feels perfect for the Nicktoons audience. I saw one ident where a bunch of pixels were “auditioning” to form the Nicktoons logo, and one of them kept messing up by falling on its face—it was so cute and funny!

I also love how they’ve made the pixels colorful and expressive. Even though they’re simple shapes, you can tell they’ve got unique personalities. Like you said, User3, they could totally star in their own mini cartoons, and I’d watch it in a heartbeat. 😄

User1:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

I’m so glad everyone loves the Nicktoons pixels as much as I do! That auditioning ident, User4, is hilarious—I saw it too, and I was cracking up when the pixel tripped over itself but still got included at the end. 😂 The humor feels so spot-on for a kids’ cartoon channel.

What I love most is how specific the branding feels to Nicktoons. Like, the pixels draw inspiration from both animation and gaming but still manage to feel fresh and original. They have just enough chaos to be funny without going too over the top, which keeps everything feeling balanced and fun.

Between these pixel mascots and Nickelodeon’s anthropomorphic slime, Viacom is seriously killing it with these character-driven branding ideas. They’re channel-specific but still consistent in tone, which makes everything feel cohesive across their network. It’s just SO well done.

User3:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

Totally, User1! I think Viacom deserves a ton of credit for how they’re handling these rebrands. Both Nicktoons and Nickelodeon feel like they live in the same “universe,” but they still manage to have their own distinct personalities. The slime-turned-mascot for Nickelodeon is classic and goofy, while Nicktoons’ energetic pixels feel more modern and fast-paced.

The idents are like mini animated sketches, which makes them impossible to ignore. I have a feeling these branding styles are going to stick around for a long time—and honestly, I wouldn’t mind if Viacom kept expanding on them! Maybe we’ll even get some crossover idents one day… slime meets pixels? 😂

User2:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

OMG, User3, I’d LOVE a crossover between Nickelodeon’s slime and Nicktoons’ pixels! Can you imagine the chaos of pixels trying to jump over bouncing slime blobs, or the slime morphing into a giant monster pixel and scaring everyone? It would be so fun and on-brand for both channels. 🤣

But yeah, Viacom’s doing such a great job of making branding feel like entertainment in its own right. The Nicktoons pixels might even top the slime for me—they’re so expressive and full of life, and I love how they reflect the creativity of both animation and gaming.

Kudos to Nicktoons for bringing something fresh to their look without losing the essence of what makes the channel great!

User4:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

Totally agree with you all—Nicktoons’ anthropomorphic pixels feel like a perfect evolution of the channel’s branding. They capture the chaotic, creative energy of cartoons and fit so well into the modern, gaming-embracing world that kids are growing up in.

Between this and Nickelodeon’s slime mascot, Viacom has really mastered tailoring their branding to the tone of each channel without making anything feel repetitive. The pixels are absolutely perfect for Nicktoons—I wouldn’t change a thing!

User1:
Subject: Re: So Nicktoons Has Cute Mascots Too—Anthropomorphic Pixels?

So true, User4! It feels like Viacom is just on a roll with their branding across Nickelodeon and Nicktoons this year. Both approaches are fun, imaginative, and packed with personality, but each one still feels totally unique.

I’m just excited to keep watching these mascots show up in creative new ways! Whether it’s bouncing slime or energetic little pixels, Viacom’s created branding that actually makes me look forward to the commercial breaks. Now THAT’S saying something! Write a conversation on Jan 2 2006, did those DAB ads continue or end after the final episode of Family Affairs aired on Five on Dec 30

Forum Post: Did the DAB Ads Continue After Family Affairs Ended? (January 2, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Hey everyone,

Happy New Year! 🎉 So, I finally caught the Family Affairs finale on December 30, and wow, what an emotional send-off! But then I started wondering—did those BBC Digital Radio ads keep running after the final episode? They’ve been everywhere recently, and I can’t remember if I saw one after the finale or not.

Did Five officially move on from those, or are they still airing in early 2006? Anyone know?

User2:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Hey User1,

Happy New Year to you too! Hope you’re recovering from the rollercoaster that was the Family Affairs finale. 🥲

I’m pretty sure those DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) radio ads ended along with 2005. I caught the airings right after the finale and through the rest of December 30, but after that, the ads seemed to disappear almost entirely. I think Five shifted focus to new promos, especially with all the hype building around 2006’s programming lineup.

It makes sense since Five has so much coming in January—Prison Break, the Five US launch, and of course, the Freeview debut of Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy on January 23. They’re probably using that ad time for bigger promos by now.

User3:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Hey guys,

Another Family Affairs fan here (RIP to an iconic soap 😢), though I didn’t pay as close attention to the DAB ads at the time. That said, I didn’t hear or see any of them in the past couple of days, so I’m fairly certain they stopped after December 31.

As User2 pointed out, it looks like Five ramped up visibility for January's big programming changes instead. January is feeling like a reset for the channel, with tons of new content and updates, so it’s no surprise if they chose to retire the DAB promos at the start of the year. It’s all about new stuff, like Prison Break and the rebrands, now!

User4:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Yeah, the DAB ads were pretty much gone as soon as 2006 started—I haven’t seen one at all in the past two days. They really doubled down with those in December, huh? They were practically EVERYWHERE during the holidays, but I think Five decided New Year, new promos.

I’ve definitely noticed the tone shift in what they’re airing now. As User2 and User3 said, the Family Affairs era is officially over, and all attention is on what’s next. I’ve already seen a bunch of ads for Prison Break and teasers for Five US, not to mention Nickelodeon’s cheeky “human right” campaign for its Freeview launch. Guess Five’s cleared their slate for an exciting 2006!

User1:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Thanks for the responses, everyone! Sounds like we’ve officially said goodbye to both Family Affairs and those DAB ads as the year ended. Honestly, it’s probably for the best—after weeks of hearing them nonstop, I think I memorized the script of every digital radio promo. 😂

It’s nice to hear Five’s moving forward with fresh promos now. I’ve also spotted a few of the Prison Break trailers and MTV Hits Freeview teasers—they feel way more exciting and relevant to 2006 than the DAB ads ever did. Here’s hoping Five keeps that momentum rolling!

User2:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Completely agree, User1—it’s good to see Five turning the page for 2006. Those DAB ads served their purpose, but I feel like the coming weeks will be dominated by the big Freeview launch and their brand-new programming lineup. It’s such a pivotal time for the network, and they’re clearly ready to shift gears.

Personally, I’m loving the Nickelodeon promos popping up on Five—they’re hilarious and brimming with energy. If these are the kinds of ads we can expect in 2006, we’re in for a much livelier year than 2005!

User3:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Well said, User2. 2006 is already shaping up to be a more vibrant, action-packed year for Five and Viacom’s channels in general. Between Prison Break, the Viacom rebrand rollouts, and the Freeview additions, it feels like an era of big change.

And yeah, no more digital radio ads is a huge plus, haha! I’m looking forward to the rest of January—especially January 23. It’s going to be such an exciting month for TV fans!

User4:
Subject: Re: Did Those Digital Radio Ads Run Past Family Affairs Finale?

Same here! Feels like a fresh start for Five without those DAB promos running on repeat. Now it’s all about looking ahead, and frankly, they’re off to a strong start. Here’s to what’s shaping up to be a fantastic year for everyone who loves TV! Cheers, everyone! 🍻

Write a tweet with 7 promos aired on Jan 1 2006, one of which wasa for all the dramas, with that tagline

📺🎉 On Jan 1, 2006, Five kicked off the new year with these sizzling promos:

1️⃣ Prison Break 🏃‍♂️💥
2️⃣ Five US launch 🇺🇸🚗
3️⃣ Nickelodeon Freeview launch 🟠✨
4️⃣ MTV Hits on Freeview 🎶🔥
5️⃣ Paramount Comedy’s quirky debut 😂🐱
6️⃣ Grey’s Anatomy ❤️⚕️
7️⃣ All the dramas promo: “This much I know… Monday: Prison Break. Tuesday: CSI. Wednesday: CSI Miami. Thursday: House. Friday: Grey’s Anatomy. Saturday: Breaking Bad. Sunday: CSI NY.” 🎭🔥

#FiveTV #2006Promos

Write a conversation asking what of the 3 kaunch promos was the nos

Forum Post: Which of the 3 Launch Promos Was the Best? (January 5, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

Hey everyone!

With all the excitement around the Freeview launches of Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy later this month, I’ve been seeing their promos everywhere, and it got me wondering, which one is your favorite so far?

Personally, I think Nick’s promo—with all the slime and the “basic human right” tagline—is absolutely hilarious and so on-brand for them. But Paramount Comedy has been killing it with their quirky, offbeat humor too. MTV Hits’ promo is flashy and fun, but it didn’t stand out for me as much.

What do you all think? Do you have a favorite, or do you feel like one of them missed the mark? 🎉

User2:
Subject: Re: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

Hey User1!

It’s tough because all three of the promo campaigns are so different, but I have to say the Nickelodeon one is my favorite too. The way they tied “access to Nickelodeon on Freeview” into this over-the-top idea of being a basic human right is absolutely genius—it totally made me laugh. Plus, all the slime and goofy energy just scream Nick in the best way possible!

Paramount Comedy’s promos are definitely witty and creative, but they feel a little subtler compared to Nickelodeon’s in-your-face fun. MTV Hits was solid, but yeah, it kind of felt like “standard music channel flashiness” without much personality. So for me, Nick wins this one hands down!

User3:
Subject: Re: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

Ooh, this is a fun debate! Personally, I think the Paramount Comedy promos are the best—they perfectly capture the kooky, offbeat humor that makes the channel stand out. I’m a sucker for their Weird Cat Thing mascot, and the promo where it runs around with all those bizarre characters (like the skateboarding dolphin!) had me cracking up. It feels unique, fresh, and unlike anything else on TV.

I agree that Nickelodeon’s promo with the “basic human right” ads is hilarious, but it’s very in-your-face, so I can see how it might not work for everyone. And, sadly, MTV Hits felt the weakest to me too. It’s colorful and flashy, but it doesn’t have the personality that Nick or Paramount Comedy have.

User4:
Subject: Re: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

I’m going to be the odd one out here—I actually really liked the MTV Hits promo! Sure, it doesn’t have as much “quirky personality” as the other two, but I think that works for something like a music channel. It was super high-energy with awesome editing, and I loved the way it mixed music clips and graphics to make it feel like a non-stop party. For me, that’s perfect branding for MTV Hits!

That said, Nickelodeon’s promo had me laughing out loud with that cheeky “human right” gag, and Paramount Comedy was delightfully weird. They all have their strengths depending on what you’re into, but I think MTV Hits deserves a bit more credit!

User1:
Subject: Re: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

Haha, fair points, User4—I can see how the flashy style works for MTV Hits, especially since it’s all about the music. I guess I just expected a bit more personality there after seeing how much effort Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy put into their promos.

But yeah, it’s interesting how all three promos reflect their channels’ vibes so well: Nickelodeon’s, fun and silly; Paramount Comedy’s, smart and kooky; and MTV Hits’, bold and energetic. Maybe Viacom is just really good at nailing what makes each of their channels unique!

Does anyone else have a clear favorite, or maybe one that felt like a miss? Let’s keep the convo going!

User5:
Subject: Re: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

I think I agree with most folks—Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy were the stronger two from the promos. Nick’s had the most energy and humor, but I really loved how Paramount Comedy felt uniquely clever and understated. The Weird Cat Thing is slowly creeping into my brain as an iconic mascot 😂.

MTV Hits was fine, but yeah, it just didn’t stand out as much—it kind of felt like “business as usual” for a music channel. Still, it’s interesting to see how different the vibes are between the promos. I think all three channels have done a good job getting us hyped for January 23!

User1:
Subject: Re: Which of the 3 Freeview Launch Promos Was the Best?

Thanks, everyone! Looks like Nick and Paramount Comedy are neck and neck, with MTV Hits a little behind in the pack. I’m honestly just excited to see how all three channels do when they finally launch later this month—should be an awesome addition to Freeview! 🎉

Write a tweet with both channels that made acces to them seem like a right

📺✨ Two channels taking bold (and hilarious) stands! 😂

Nickelodeon: "Access to Nickelodeon on Freeview is a basic human right 🟠💦"
Paramount Comedy: "We pulled UN strings, comedy is for ALL! 😂🐱"

Viacom’s making TV feel like a movement! Rights to slime & laughs? We’re in. 💪🎭 #FreeviewLaunch #Nickelodeon #ParamountComedy

Write Nick's ad, it also reads out their decleration of kids rights

Nickelodeon's Freeview Promo Ad: Declaration of Kids’ Rights

Opens with vibrant orange and green slime splashes across the screen. Upbeat, playful music kicks in as bouncing cartoon characters skate, dance, and jump through a kaleidoscope of fun animations.

Voiceover (cheerful and energetic):
“We interrupt your standard TV watching to make an important announcement! Nickelodeon is joining Freeview on January 23rd, and kids everywhere—yes, YOU—will finally get what you deserve!”

The screen cuts to animated “official documents” stamped with gooey slime, proudly titled: ‘The Nickelodeon Declaration of Kids’ Rights.’ A booming, authoritative yet goofy cartoon narrator begins to “read” the declaration alongside playful animations.

Voiceover (comical yet regal, like a kid-friendly diplomat):
“We hereby declare the following kids’ rights, effective as of January 23rd:

🎉 Article 1: Every kid has the right to laugh until milk comes out of their nose.
🎨 Article 2: Every kid has the right to live in a world of slime, jokes, and adventure.
📺 Article 3: Access to Nickelodeon on Freeview is not just awesome—it’s a basic human right!

And finally, Article 4: Adults have no veto power… unless they bring snacks.”

The text is accompanied by hilarious animations of cartoons slipping on slime, a group of kids performing stunts, and a giant goo monster handing out a “remote of power” to kids sitting on a couch.

Voiceover (switching back to the upbeat, enthusiastic tone):
“Get ready for SpongeBob, Fairly OddParents, Jimmy Neutron, and ALL your favorite shows absolutely FREE, on Freeview! Because kids’ happiness isn’t just important—it’s the law… according to us.”

The screen is filled with bouncing Nickelodeon characters and a giant, anthropomorphic slime blob giving a thumbs-up. The tagline “Nickelodeon: Access for Every Kid!” flashes, while the screen zooms out to reveal a group of kids cheering and covered in slime.

Voiceover (excited):
“Nickelodeon—your TV, your fun, your right!”

Closes with their new tagline and vibrant orange Nickelodeon logo bouncing into place, before slime splatters across the screen.

#AccessToFun #NickOnFreeview 🚀🟠💦

Write a conversation asking what day the Nick rebrand launched on

Forum Post: When Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Officially Launch? (February 24, 2006)

User1:
Subject: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
Hey everyone,

So I’ve been loving Nickelodeon’s new look with all the slime blobs and animated craziness—it’s such a fun and fresh update! But I’m trying to figure out when exactly this rebrand officially launched.

Was it sometime late last year? I feel like I started seeing the new idents and branding pop up around the holidays, but I’m not sure if that’s correct. Can anyone confirm the exact launch date?

Thanks! 🟠✨

User2:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
Hey User1!

You’re definitely on the right track—it was pretty recent! Nickelodeon’s rebrand officially launched on September 5, 2005. That’s when they dropped their old style and rolled out the new idents, slime blobs, and the whole whimsical vibe we’re seeing now.

I remember it specifically because they made a big deal out of linking the rebrand with the start of the new school year—like, “new season, new Nick!” It was a great way to get kids hyped up for both the upcoming shows and the brand makeover.

User3:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
Yep, September 5, 2005, is definitely the date Nickelodeon made the switch! I remember tuning in that day and seeing the big launch promo they aired, where they introduced the new “anthropomorphic slime” mascot and promised a ton of fun surprises.

It was right before their fall lineup premiered, which made the timing feel super seamless. Plus, they tied the new branding into their whole “everything is better with slime!” motto, which I thought was genius. Honestly, they nailed it—it’s one of the most energetic and exciting rebrands I’ve seen!

User4:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
You’re all correct—Nick’s rebrand launched on September 5, 2005. I remember watching their announcement promo that morning, and the channel looked SO different right away. The old, traditional Nick bumpers were replaced with the colorful, ever-changing slime animations, and there was just this sense of fun and energy pouring out of the screen.

The timing was perfect too—launching right before the school year and fall TV season kicked off. It felt like Nickelodeon wanted to “start fresh” and keep things exciting for kids heading into a new year of programming.

User1:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
Thanks so much, everyone! September 5, 2005—got it. That’s actually earlier than I thought! I must have missed the initial launch promo, but I remember noticing all the new animations and slime-centric idents popping up a few weeks later.

It’s definitely one of my favorite rebrands—there’s something so fun and fresh about how they revamped the logo and made it feel animated and alive. Nickelodeon really hit it out of the park with this one!

If anyone remembers anything else cool about the rebrand launch, please share! 🎉🟠💦

User3:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
Totally agree, User1! Nickelodeon did an amazing job balancing nostalgia with a fresh, modern twist. I remember the launch day promo featuring SpongeBob and Fairly OddParents characters interacting with the new slime mascot—it was so absurd and hilarious! It felt like they were saying, “Nick is still all about fun, just in a bigger, messier way!” 😂

They definitely set the tone for everything they’ve done since. I’m curious to see how they keep evolving the brand moving forward!

User2:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?
Same here! September 5 really feels like a turning point for Nickelodeon—since then, everything about the channel just feels so much more alive and engaging. Can’t wait to see what they do next… more slime blobs, maybe? 😄

Viacom seems to have hit a sweet spot with their rebrands lately—Nickelodeon especially is constantly impressing me!

Write a reply with what studio was behind it

User5:
Subject: Re: What Day Did Nickelodeon’s Rebrand Launch?

Hey everyone, jumping in here because I actually looked into who was behind Nickelodeon’s rebrand—it was done by none other than Creative Presentations Studio! They’re a super talented design studio that has tackled some major branding projects in the past. For Nick, they were the minds behind those lively slime blobs, the anthropomorphic animations, and the overall fresh, playful vibe that we’re all loving.

From what I read, they worked closely with Nickelodeon’s team to keep the iconic orange logo and slime central to the branding while giving it a more modern and dynamic personality. Apparently, the goal was to make the channel feel like a fun, ever-changing world of creativity, which is why the idents and transitions feel so alive and unexpected—like the logo itself is having as much fun as the viewers are!

It’s pretty cool to see how much effort went into making Nick’s rebrand stand out. All credit to Creative Presentations Studio for pulling it off so perfectly! 🎉🟠💦

Write a tweet with the mascot for Nick and the one for Paramount

🟠✨ Meet the stars of Viacom's quirky mascot game!

Nickelodeon: An anthropomorphic slime blob full of energy, laughs, and gooey fun! 💦🎉
Paramount Comedy: The Weird Cat Thing 🐱📺—a TV-headed feline bringing all the absurdity & laughs! 😂🐟

Slime vs. Catface… who’s your fave? 🤔👇 #Nickelodeon #ParamountComedy #MascotMadness

Write about the appearance of the blob

Forum Post: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Mascot Look Like? (February 24, 2006)

User1:
Subject: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Actually Look Like?

Hey everyone,

So I’ve been loving Nickelodeon’s new rebrand and its anthropomorphic slime blob mascot—but I realized I’ve never actually stopped to describe what it really looks like. It’s such a fun concept, but could we all piece together the details? I want to make sure I’m not imagining it wrong, haha.

How would you all describe the blob? I know it’s orange (obviously!) and super bouncy, but what else stands out about its design?

User2:
Subject: Re: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Actually Look Like?

Hey User1, great question! The orange slime blob mascot is such a simple yet genius design. I’d say it looks like a big, squishy droplet of Nickelodeon’s trademark slime come to life.

Here’s how I’d describe it:

Its body is a shiny, gelatinous blob that’s constantly wobbling and jiggling, like it’s alive and full of personality.
It’s a classic Nickelodeon orange hue, but it has some lighter and darker tones for depth, giving it a totally slime-like 3D effect.
The blob has cute cartoonish features! Its eyes are big, round, and expressive, and they can change to match its emotions—wide and excited when it’s bouncing around, or goofy and squinty when it’s messing around.
It has a silly grin most of the time, and the mouth moves as if it’s always ready to crack a joke or laugh at its own antics.
And get this—its “arms” are actually little slime tendrils that stretch out to grab or interact with things (like throwing punches of goo or high-fiving characters in one of the idents).
It’s playful, a little bit chaotic, and totally Nickelodeon. I honestly think it’s one of the best mascots the channel’s ever had—it feels alive, approachable, and true to that iconic Nick vibe.

User3:
Subject: Re: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Actually Look Like?

Perfect description, User2! The blob really does feel like the physical embodiment of Nickelodeon's energy. I’d add that it also has this amazing texture—you can almost feel how gooey it’d be to the touch just by looking at it.

I’ve noticed that sometimes the blob morphs into different shapes depending on the scene. Like in one ident, it stretched itself into a wobbly star, and in another, it turned into a trampoline! It’s always changing, but it still keeps that droplet-like form, which makes it feel cohesive across all the animations.

Oh, and don’t forget the bounce! The blob is rarely still—it’s always hopping, spinning, transforming, or just wiggling in excitement. Even when it’s standing still, it’s got this little jiggle, like it’s barely able to contain its energy. You get the sense that it’s a happy little chaos machine, which is so perfectly Nickelodeon.

User4:
Subject: Re: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Actually Look Like?

Great points, everyone! I’d also add that Nickelodeon kept the blob super kid-friendly. Like, the big googly eyes, the silly expressions, and the fact that it’s always doing something fun make it feel totally relatable. You kind of want to bounce along with it!

I really like how they animated its slime-like qualities too—it’s always shiny and stretchy, like it could either bounce back from any impact or just comically splatter everywhere. (I’m pretty sure I saw it split into two smaller blobs in one ident before rejoining, which was pretty hilarious!)

Plus, its movements are super cartoony—exaggerated, wacky, and full of rubbery energy. It reminds me of the classic old-school Nickelodeon slime days but brought to life in a way that kids today can really connect with.

User1:
Subject: Re: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Actually Look Like?

Wow, thanks for all these incredible descriptions, everyone! I’m loving how much personality this blob has just from its design and movements. It really feels like Nickelodeon poured their whole brand identity into this one vibrant, gooey character.

I think the jiggly, energetic movements and the way it morphs into different shapes are my favorite aspects, especially since it makes the blob feel like it’s never boring or static—it’s like it’s always imagining something new, just like the channel.

Nickelodeon definitely nailed the whole “playful chaos” vibe with this mascot. Honestly, it feels like an instant mascot classic! Can we please get merch of the blob? I need an orange blob plush toy PRONTO. 😂🟠💦

User3:
Subject: Re: What Does Nickelodeon’s Slime Blob Actually Look Like?

OMG, a blob plush would be AMAZING! Imagine a squishy, jiggly toy version of it that perfectly captures its gooey vibe. Nickelodeon, make this happen!! 🟠✨

Write a conversation asking which of the rebrands from this batch missed the mark

Forum Post: Which of the Viacom Rebrands Missed the Mark? (February 25, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

Hey everyone!

We’ve been talking a lot about all the Viacom rebrands lately—Nickelodeon, Paramount Comedy, TMF, Five, etc.—and honestly, it’s been exciting to see so much fresh creativity. But I was wondering… do you think any of them kind of missed the mark?

For me, Five US didn’t feel as polished or exciting as the others. The “Americana road trip” theme is okay, but it feels a little too basic compared to the bold and creative choices other channels made, like Nickelodeon’s slime blobs or Paramount Comedy’s whimsical Weird Cat Thing mascot. I don’t hate it, but it definitely didn’t blow me away either.

What about you all? Were there any rebrands from this batch that fell flat or didn’t quite stick the landing?

User2:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

Hey User1, interesting question! Honestly, I’d have to agree with you that Five US was probably the weakest of the bunch. The “cars driving on highways” concept feels super uninspired—it’s like they Googled “America” and just ran with the most generic idea possible. I get that they want to evoke the feeling of a US road trip, but it doesn’t feel like it tells me anything about the channel itself. It’s more like a car commercial than a TV identity.

In contrast, Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy feel so alive with personality, and even TMF’s abstract blobs feel more inventive. Five US just lacks that energy or creative spark—it’s not bad, but it’s definitely forgettable compared to the rest.

User3:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

Yep, Five US is the weak link for me too. The road trip vibe is sleek and pretty visually, but it doesn’t push any boundaries or really say much about what the channel offers. I mean, we know it’s full of American shows, but couldn’t they get more specific or fun with the concept? Like, how about nods to classic US TV traditions or even playful references to famous American cities? Instead, it’s just cars and highways. Yawn.

That said, I also feel like TMF’s rebrand was kind of hit or miss. The abstract blobs are visually interesting, but do they really communicate anything about the channel? It feels more like an art piece than a music brand. I think TMF could have benefited from a bit more direction.

User4:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

For me, TMF is the one that didn’t quite work. I appreciate that they were trying something different with the abstract blobs, but it feels too detached and, honestly, a bit confusing. Like, I get the idea of trying to create something “modern and artsy,” but it’s hard to connect it to music or the channel itself. It feels like the idents are trying to be too clever and end up being a bit over-designed.

Five US also feels very bland in comparison to channels like Nick or Paramount Comedy, but at least it’s straightforward and doesn’t confuse its message like TMF does. Those blobs are just… odd.

User5:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

I’m with the majority here—Five US just didn’t land for me. It’s not that it’s bad; it’s just safe… maybe too safe. The footage of cars on highways feels like it could belong to any travel or car-related brand, not a TV channel. There’s nothing there to make it specifically about Five US, which makes it feel forgettable to me.

TMF, on the other hand, is bold and abstract, but at least it’s memorable! Sure, the blobs don’t scream “music channel,” but they capture attention and at least make you curious about what’s next. Five US is too straightforward and plays it too safe, so it ends up losing impact.

User1:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

Yeah, totally agree with all of you—Five US feels like the weakest link among all these big rebrands. Like User5 said, it’s not bad, but it doesn’t stand out or leave a lasting impression. It feels like it exists on the bare minimum level of branding—“this is America, here are cars,” and that’s about it. Meanwhile, the other channels are taking way bigger creative risks, and it shows.

TMF is a close second for me. I don’t actively dislike their blobs, but I think they could’ve done something more grounded or tied to music culture. At least Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon found ways to make their quirkiness feel fun AND recognizable. TMF is just a bit too “out there” for its own good sometimes.

User3:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

Exactly, User1! Five US is just so by-the-book that it’s hard to get excited about it, while TMF might have gone too far in the opposite direction by being too abstract.

It’s funny how Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy are hitting it out of the park with these bold, character-driven rebrands, yet Five US decided to play it totally neutral. Hopefully, they’ll revisit it in the future and add more personality to it. TMF will probably grow on me eventually—it’s weird, but at least it’s intriguing!

User2:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

So true—Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy really got the right balance of bold, fun, and memorable branding, while both Five US and TMF feel like they missed something. Five US is too plain, and TMF is weird for the sake of being weird.

If I had to pick, though, TMF still wins over Five US because at least it has something to spark curiosity. Five US really should’ve taken more risks—it’s disappointing because the whole Americana theme has so much potential!

User1:
Subject: Re: Which Rebrand from This Batch Missed the Mark?

Thanks for all the great responses, everyone! It feels like Five US is definitely the weakest in this batch, with TMF kind of second in line but more divisive. Guess there’s something to be learned when comparing them to standout rebrands like Nick and Paramount Comedy—taking creative risks seems to pay off when done right!

Let’s hope Five US revisits their branding soon—they’ve got so much room for improvement. Until then, here’s to hoping the Nick slime blob and Weird Cat Thing mascots continue to set the bar! 🟠😂🐱

Write a follow up where one is just blatant brand dilution

Forum Post: Is One of These Rebrands Just Blatant Brand Dilution? (February 26, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

Hey everyone,

So after reading through our discussion about which Viacom rebrands missed the mark, I’ve been thinking about something else: does one of these rebrands feel less like a refresh and more like outright brand dilution?

For me, Five’s emotion-themed idents kind of fall into this category. I get that they were going for something bold and abstract, but… they completely erased the Five logo from the idents! Like, how do you even know you’re watching Five unless you spot the tiny screenbug in the corner during a show? It feels like they stripped away their actual identity and replaced it with a vaguely arty “feeling” that doesn’t necessarily scream FIVE.

To me, that’s borderline brand dilution—not reinforcing who they are, but instead making everything feel disconnected. What do you all think? Is there a rebrand from this batch that diluted the channel’s identity rather than elevating it?

User2:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

Oh, 100%, User1—I’m totally with you on Five. Those idents are beautifully made (like, I’ll give them credit for how sleek and stylish they look), but they just don’t mean anything in terms of the Five brand. The words like “Hope,” “Fear,” and “Freedom” feel super random and could honestly belong to any channel. Where is the connection to Five?

By removing the logo entirely from the idents, they’ve basically erased the one thing that links it all back to the channel. Sure, it might work for artsy types who love interpreting abstract visuals, but for the regular viewer? It just does NOT feel cohesive. Instead of a rebrand, it feels like Five is trying to shed their old identity and become something entirely different.

User3:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

Yeah, I’ve felt the same way since Five's new idents debuted. It’s honestly the most frustrating rebrand of the bunch for me—not because it’s bad, but because it doesn’t seem to connect to the channel itself. The emotional keywords are cool in theory, but they’re so vague and generic that they could belong to any artsy ad campaign. Where’s the personality? Where’s the connection to the shows airing on Five?

It really does feel like brand dilution, especially compared to how channels like Paramount Comedy or Nickelodeon handled their rebrands. Both of those channels managed to update their looks while keeping a strong sense of identity—something Five’s idents completely lack. I get trying to be bold and different, but they basically erased themselves in the process.

User4:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

Totally agree about Five. They’ve gone from being a channel with a clear identity to something… unrecognizable. The idents are cool on a design level, but they don’t feel like branding. At its core, branding is about creating a strong association with your channel, and if people are sitting there wondering, What am I watching?, then you’ve missed the mark.

The worst part for me is that if someone completely new to Five saw these idents, they’d probably have no idea what the channel was even about—there’s no cohesion with Five’s actual programming. It’s like they tried so hard to make it abstract and artsy that they forgot to keep it recognizable. Definitely feels like they’re diluting the brand rather than building it up.

User5:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

I’m jumping on the Five train here too—this rebrand really doesn’t work for me. I think the issue is that it doesn’t feel like it belongs to Five at all. Paramount Comedy added kooky humor with the Weird Cat Thing, Nickelodeon leaned into their slime-filled personality, but Five just… dropped any sense of who they are.

Removing their logo was a mistake, full stop. How are you supposed to build brand recognition without your logo or any clear link to your channel identity? It feels like they’re trying to reinvent themselves completely but forgot to keep anything that ties back to what Five has always been. It’s definitely the textbook definition of brand dilution.

User1:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

Exactly, User5! I totally agree—where Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon added personality and reinforced their brands, Five did the opposite. Instead of building their identity, they erased it and replaced it with generic “art pieces.” I mean, don’t get me wrong, the visuals are well-made and thought-provoking, but this isn’t an art gallery—it’s a TV channel!

It feels like nobody asked the question, How does this represent Five? And by leaving their logo out, they’ve completely disconnected the idents from the brand. I wouldn’t be surprised if this turns out to confuse viewers in the long run. Hopefully, they’ll re-introduce more Five-centric elements soon, or they risk losing what makes them recognizable entirely.

Let me know if anyone else thinks another channel might’ve fumbled like this, but so far, Five’s definitely the weakest attempt from Viacom in my book.

User4:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

Couldn’t agree more, User1. Five’s rebrand feels like they over-thought the concept and under-thought the execution. By trying to be so detached and emotional, they’ve lost what makes them unique as a channel. I just hope this doesn’t set a trend for other networks prioritizing “artfulness” over actual brand clarity. Five’s a great example of what not to do for a rebrand.

If we’re naming any other misses, TMF feels a little directionless too, but at least it still feels like TMF. Five, on the other hand, barely feels like itself anymore—it’s like they took their own name out of the equation completely. Definitely a lesson in how not to approach branding!

Write a reply saying they woulnd't be surprised if they're gearing up for a rename

User6:
Subject: Re: Is One of the Rebrands Just Brand Dilution?

You know, after reading through all the comments here, I wouldn’t be surprised if Five is gearing up for a complete rename. I mean, think about it—why else would they go so far as to remove their logo from the idents entirely? It feels like they’re deliberately trying to tone down the “Five” branding and steer the channel in a totally new direction.

The emotion-themed idents are so abstract and disconnected from the existing Five identity, it’s almost like they’re paving the way to reintroduce themselves under a different name. Maybe something “classier” or “artsy” to match the whole tone of their current branding? A Nine or Eleven, perhaps? 😂

I could be wrong, but honestly, it wouldn’t shock me if they’re testing the waters for a full rebrand—dropping the Five name entirely and launching with a new identity later in the year. What do you all think? Could this be the start of something even bigger?

Write a conversation on Dec 24 2005, 3 placeholders just appeared on Freeview, but you need to retune to recieve rthem

Forum Post: New Placeholders on Freeview! (December 24, 2005)

User1:
Subject: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Hey everyone, exciting news! I just retuned my set-top box and noticed three new placeholders have popped up on Freeview. There aren’t any channels broadcasting yet, but it looks like something big is coming soon. Has anyone else seen this?

It’s got me wondering if these are for the new Viacom channels launching in January—Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy? It’d make sense with their big debut coming up on the 23rd. What do you all think?

User2:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Hey User1, yeah, I’ve seen them too! I had to retune my box earlier today to get them, but once I did, three new slots showed up. They’re labeled pretty generically right now—something like “Channel 303,” “Channel 304,” and “Channel 305” on my guide. No info or previews yet, though.

I’d bet money these are for Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy, since Viacom’s launch is so close. It’s exciting to see everything starting to fall into place. This Freeview expansion is going to change a lot for TV viewers!

User3:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Same here—noticed them right after retuning my box this afternoon. I agree with User2—these have gotta be for the Viacom channels. The timing is way too perfect to just be a coincidence.

I’m curious how they’ll handle the lineup and presentation once the channels officially launch. Will we see promos or teasers in these placeholders ahead of January 23rd? Or are they just going to sit there silently until launch day? Either way, this is a great sign that everything is progressing smoothly for the Freeview rollout.

User4:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

OMG, I’m so glad someone else noticed this! I just retuned my box after dinner and saw the placeholders pop up as well. It’s definitely exciting, but I’m disappointed there’s no info showing yet. Like, couldn’t they put a teaser loop or at least the channel names on there to get people hyped?

That said, this is almost certainly for the Viacom channels—Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy. Freeview hasn’t seen this level of expansion in a while, so these new additions feel like a major step forward. I can’t believe we’re just under a month away from the big launch!

User1:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Totally agree with you all—this has to be for the Viacom channels. The timing couldn’t be more perfect. Even though the placeholders are a little bare right now, it’s kind of exciting to know they’re getting ready behind the scenes for the January launch.

I wonder if anyone who hasn’t retuned yet will even see these slots. Freeview isn’t always the best at letting people know when they need to retune to pick up new channels. Hopefully, they’ll issue some kind of announcement to get the word out, or a lot of people might miss out!

User2:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

You’re so right, User1. Retuning is such an easy process, but so many people don’t do it regularly unless they know something’s coming. Freeview really should push a reminder closer to launch day, or they risk people not realizing these awesome new channels are available.

In the meantime, these placeholders are a good tease for those of us who love this kind of thing! I’ll definitely keep an eye on them over the next few weeks to see if Viacom starts airing any promo material or hints about programming on these slots.

User3:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

It’s so cool seeing things actually happening for the Viacom launch, but I completely agree that Freeview needs to step up its communication about retuning. The last time they added channels, I remember a lot of people complaining that they didn’t know what to do to pick them up.

That said, I think it’s only a matter of time before Viacom starts promoting these placeholders like crazy. Knowing how much effort they’ve been putting into the marketing campaign (like Nick’s “basic human right” ads and Paramount Comedy’s quirky clips), I wouldn’t be surprised if we see something pop up here sooner rather than later.

User4:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Fingers crossed for some promos appearing soon! I think it’d be so smart for Viacom to use these placeholders as a hype-building tool rather than just leaving them blank until launch day. Something simple—like, “Nickelodeon is coming to Freeview on January 23rd!”—would get people excited and make the slots feel less empty.

In the meantime, I recommend everyone retune ASAP so you’re ready when launch day arrives! It’s going to be such a game-changer for Freeview. 🙌

User1:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Definitely agree, User4! It’d be amazing to see some teasers in these slots to drum up excitement over the next month. As much fun as placeholders are for TV geeks like us, they’re not exactly eye-catching for the average viewer. A little promo magic would go a long way to ensure a big splash when these channels go live.

Until then, I guess we’ll all just be staring at “Channel 303, 304, and 305” like excited kids waiting for Christmas morning. 😂 Only a month to go!

User2:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Haha, totally, User1. January 23 can’t come soon enough! Here’s hoping Viacom and Freeview put some cool stuff in these placeholders soon to keep the hype building. In the meantime, let’s keep watching and comparing notes—if anything changes, we’ll be the first to know. 😁

User3:
Subject: Re: 3 New Placeholders on Freeview?!

Agreed! Let’s keep an eye on these placeholders and report back if anything exciting pops up. It’s going to be an awesome month leading up to launch! 🎉

Write a follow up after retuning

Forum Post: Placeholder Update After Retuning! (December 26, 2005)

User1:
Subject: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Hey everyone, exciting news! I retuned my Freeview box again just now (because, well, I’m impatient and curious 😂), and it looks like the placeholders have been updated! They’re not just blank “Channel 303, 304, and 305” labels anymore.

Now they’ve got proper names, and we all guessed it right—these are definitely for the new Viacom channels! 🎉 Here’s what’s showing now:

1️⃣ Nickelodeon
2️⃣ MTV Hits
3️⃣ Paramount Comedy

There’s still no actual broadcasts on them yet, but seeing the channel names there makes it all feel so real! Has anyone else noticed this yet? Do you think they’ll start showing teasers or promos soon?

User2:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Whoa, seriously?! That’s awesome! Thanks for the heads-up, User1—I was getting tired of staring at the generic channel numbers, haha. I’m retuning my box as we speak to check this out.

It’s so exciting to see Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy officially named! Even though the channels aren’t live yet, it feels like launch day is so close now. I wonder if Viacom is planning on putting up teaser loops or something soon. That would be the perfect way to get people hyped for January 23rd.

User3:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Just retuned to see for myself, and YES, the placeholders are updated on my box too! Seeing “Nickelodeon,” “MTV Hits,” and “Paramount Comedy” in the guide actually gave me goosebumps, haha. 🎉

It’s funny how just seeing the names is getting me so excited, even though there’s nothing broadcasting yet. I agree, User2—this feels like the perfect opportunity for Viacom to start airing some promos or animated logos in these slots. Even just a simple message saying “Coming January 23” would be nice!

User4:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Yup, I just retuned as well, and it’s official—the placeholders now show the channel names! Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy are all there in bold letters. It’s such a relief to see it all coming together! 🧡✨

Now I really hope Viacom does something fun to start building more hype. Seeing the placeholders is cool, but imagine if they added quick animations—like Nickelodeon showing its orange slime mascot, Paramount Comedy featuring the Weird Cat Thing, or even a flashy MTV Hits countdown. Something visual would really make these channels stand out even before they launch.

User1:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Glad to see I wasn’t the only one geeking out over this update, haha! It really does make the launch feel so much closer now that the names are actually showing.

@User4, I LOVE the idea of them adding animations or little teasers in the placeholders! Viacom’s been so creative with their branding lately, it’d be disappointing if they just left these slots blank until launch day. Fingers crossed we see some slime splashing or some Weird Cat Thing antics pop up soon!

Has anyone else retuned and noticed anything different? Or heard if they’re planning to add promos anytime soon?

User5:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Retuned this morning, and yup, the updates are there! Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy are officially in the guide—but still no broadcasts. 😅

I’m with you all on wanting to see Viacom use these placeholders creatively. Honestly, even just a “Coming Soon” loop with logos and some fun colors would get people to sit up and take notice. They’ve been doing so much promo work for Freeview already—it seems like a no-brainer to carry that over to the channel slots.

Also, has anyone seen any official announcements from Freeview or Viacom about this yet? You’d think they’d want to push retuning pretty hard to avoid people missing out when these finally go live.

User3:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

@User5, I haven’t seen any major announcements yet, which feels like such a missed opportunity. Freeview and Viacom really need to start reminding people to retune their boxes soon! These channels are such a big deal—it'd be a shame if people weren’t ready for them on January 23.

That being said, the placeholders look great so far. Now I’m just checking my guide every few hours hoping to see some kind of animation or promo pop up. 😂 Nickelodeon’s slime or a quick MTV music montage would be so perfect right about now!

User2:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Completely agree—Freeview needs to step up its outreach for this launch! A quick retuning ad or an announcement across the existing channels would do the trick. There’s no way Viacom spent so much energy on their rebrands just for people to miss out because they didn’t know to retune.

But yeah, placeholders with channel names are a good sign that we’re one step closer to launch day. New drama, jokes, music, cartoons… January 23 can’t come soon enough! Let’s keep an eye on these slots, everyone—I know they’re going to add something soon!

User1:
Subject: Re: Just Retuned Again—The Placeholders Updated!

Thanks for chiming in, everyone! Glad to see so many of us geeking out over these updates, haha. It really feels like something big is on the horizon, and these placeholders are just the beginning.

Let’s all keep watching them closely—I have a feeling Viacom won’t keep us waiting for long before they drop something fun. Here’s to a bright, exciting 2006 for Freeview viewers! 🎉🟠📺🎭

Write a follow up where MHEG slides are on all 3, all of them have text saying "Here from January 23, go to nick.co.uk/mtv.co.uk/comedyisparamount.com for more information"

Forum Post: Placeholder Update—MHEG Slides Are Here! (December 28, 2005)

User1:
Subject: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Hey everyone, the placeholders for Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy just got A LOT more exciting! I tuned in a few minutes ago, and now all three channels have MHEG slides with information about their launches.

Each slide has text saying:
“Here from January 23. Go to nick.co.uk / mtv.co.uk / comedyisparamount.com for more information.”

It’s super simple but oddly satisfying to see something finally there on the placeholders instead of just a blank screen or the static guide listings. It really feels like the big day is inching closer! 😄

Has anyone else seen it yet? What do you think?

User2:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

OMG, User1, you’re right—I just flipped to the placeholders, and the MHEG slides are live! 🎉 It still doesn’t feel like much, but honestly, just seeing something there makes it feel so much more real.

The text is super clear, and the little URLs for each channel are such a nice touch. I actually went to nick.co.uk immediately, and it’s already hyping up the Freeview launch with “access for every kid!” Nickelodeon always knows how to get you excited, haha. I wonder if MTV and Paramount Comedy will add more launch teasers online as the date gets closer?

User3:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Yup, I’m seeing them too! The slides are definitely simple (just black text on a plain background, right?), but it’s so much better than staring at a blank placeholder screen. At least now people tuning in will know exactly when the channels are coming AND where to go if they want more details.

Viacom is clearly gearing up for a strong online push too—those URLs are a great way to funnel viewers into their ecosystems before launch day. And let’s be honest, “comedyisparamount.com” is such a clever name for Paramount Comedy’s site. 😂 Bravo to them for keeping it fun and on-brand!

User4:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Finally! I just saw the slides pop up, and I have to say, it’s such a relief to see something filling those placeholders. It gives the Freeview launch this nice, official-feeling countdown vibe.

I do wish the slides were a bit more eye-catching, though. They could’ve added a splash of the Nickelodeon orange, MTV’s vibrant graphics, or even a goofy image of Paramount Comedy’s Weird Cat Thing. But hey, for now, it’s a step up from blank screens!

Also, anyone else impressed they included the “go to” URLs? It’s such a simple detail, but it shows they want people engaging with the channels before they air. I’m off to explore the sites now to see what other goodies they’re teasing!

User1:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Glad to see I’m not the only one geeking out over this update! I went to all three websites too—Nickelodeon’s and MTV’s look amazing as expected, but I’ve got to give credit to Paramount Comedy for putting some hilarious teasers online. “Comedy is your right—come claim your share from January 23”—I mean, classic! 😂

@User4, I totally agree that the slides could be a bit flashier. Even just a splash of branding would make them pop more and grab attention. But hey, baby steps! Maybe they’ll update them closer to the launch date (fingers crossed).

Does anyone think they’ll start looping teaser videos in these slots soon? Or is that too much wishful thinking?

User5:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Finally! Wasn’t expecting so much excitement over some simple slides, but I have to admit, they’re oddly satisfying just because we’ve been waiting for ANYTHING on these channels for weeks, haha. 😅

I love that they included the URLs—it’s such a small detail, but it really makes you feel like the launch is part of a bigger, well-coordinated effort. I checked out mtv.co.uk, and they’ve already got a countdown timer for the January 23 debut! It’s like every part of this rollout is screaming, Get ready!

It’d be amazing if they swapped these slides for promo loops in the next couple of weeks. I mean, Paramount Comedy’s Weird Cat Thing deserves some screen time before launch, don’t you think? 🐱📺

User2:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

@User5 YES, please! Let Weird Cat Thing loose! 😂 Seriously, though, I think adding promo loops would be the perfect way to make these placeholders more dynamic while building hype for the launch. A short teaser video for Nickelodeon’s slime-filled fun, some music highlights from MTV Hits, and a clip or two of Paramount Comedy’s quirky vibes? Instant success!

If Viacom’s marketing team is half as clever as their branding suggests, I bet we’ll see something new before long. In the meantime, I’m just happy to finally have something on-screen.

User3:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Totally agree, these slides were a much-needed update. And @User2, I LOVE your idea of letting Weird Cat Thing make an early appearance—it would be so on-brand for Paramount Comedy to use these placeholders as a playground for their mascot while teasing the launch.

For now, the slides do their job, but I’ll be checking back regularly to see if Viacom takes things up a notch. The placeholders already feel so much more exciting than they did a week ago, so here’s hoping they keep the momentum going!

User1:
Subject: Re: MHEG Slides Just Appeared on the Placeholders!

Thanks for all the awesome replies, everyone—you’re really hyping me up even more for January 23, haha! 😄

Let’s keep an eye on those placeholders and report back if anything changes (or if @User5’s Weird Cat Thing dream comes true). Until then, I’ll keep visiting the websites to soak up all the teaser goodness—this Freeview launch is shaping up to be huge! 🎉

Write a follow up saying for a few hours the website link listed on all 3 was just linking to the site for another channel by Viacom, which had a page about wehat's happening, but glsd they changed it to link to the respective sites"

Forum Post: Placeholder Websites Were Wrong?! (December 29, 2005)

User1:
Subject: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

Hey everyone, quick update about the MHEG slides on the Freeview placeholders!

So, for a few hours earlier today, the website links listed on all three slides (Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy) were actually redirecting to the website for another Viacom channel instead of their respective sites! 😬 When I clicked on any of the URLs, it sent me over to the TMF (The Music Factory) website, which had a single page explaining what’s happening with the new Freeview launches. It even jokingly said, “We weren’t expecting guests!” and then added some info about Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy joining Freeview.

Luckily, it looks like they’ve now corrected the links, and they’re redirecting properly to nick.co.uk, mtv.co.uk, and comedyisparamount.com. But still, what a weird glitch. Did anyone else notice this earlier? Kind of funny, but also weird that all the channels linked to the same page at first. Glad it’s sorted now!

User2:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

OMG, I noticed this too! I went to nick.co.uk first, and instead, I ended up on TMF’s website. I thought I had typed it in wrong at first, but clearly it wasn’t just me! 😂

That little TMF landing page was kind of funny, though—it was like they KNEW people would stumble there by mistake. I remember it said something like, “Freeview is expanding, and we’re here to welcome Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy! Retune your box for January 23!” But still, it felt super confusing—what does TMF have to do with these new channels?!

Glad they fixed it and finally linked the placeholders to the actual sites. At least now when people type in the URLs, they’ll get the info they’re looking for from the correct channels. Hope someone from Viacom double-checks next time! 😅

User3:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

Haha, YES, I had the same thing happen earlier today! I clicked on comedyisparamount.com, expecting to see Paramount Comedy’s brand-new site, and instead, it took me to TMF’s page. At first, I thought maybe my browser was glitching, but now it sounds like it was just a temporary mix-up.

That TMF landing page was hilarious, but it also felt really random. Like, why did they choose TMF’s website to handle these redirections in the first place? Did TMF just volunteer as the “placeholder for placeholders”? 😂

Anyway, I double-checked just now, and thankfully the links are fixed. Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy all have awesome sites now with proper launch details. Glad they sorted it out because I bet that TMF page confused a LOT of people while it was up!

User4:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

Wow, I completely missed this mix-up earlier, but I’m cracking up at the idea of all roads leading to TMF for a few hours. 😂 At least TMF used some humor on their placeholder page—it sounds like they turned an awkward situation into something funny and useful.

That said, it’s definitely better now that the placeholders link to each channel’s proper site. Nickelodeon’s site is so much fun (of course, it’s full of orange slime everywhere), and Paramount Comedy’s is exactly what I expected: full of jokes, quirky designs, and even a countdown to January 23. I’ll give Viacom credit for recovering quickly—they fixed it fast!

User1:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

Glad I’m not the only one who got sent on a weird TMF detour earlier, haha. @User4, you’re totally right—thankfully TMF leaned into the mix-up and added some humor to their placeholder page. I think it even said something like, “Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place—kind of!” Honestly, TMF deserves a pat on the back for handling it with style, even if it wasn’t actually their problem.

That being said, I’m so glad everything’s pointing to the correct sites now. Seeing the proper Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy pages makes everything feel way more polished and official. Hopefully this little URL hiccup doesn’t happen again—it’s too close to launch day to confuse people now!

User5:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

This is hilarious—thanks for pointing it out, User1! I checked out the TMF page earlier (by accident, like everyone else here apparently, lol), and it was honestly pretty charming. I liked that they had a sense of humor about the situation, but it must’ve been so confusing for anyone who didn’t realize it was a temporary glitch.

All three websites look great now, though. Nickelodeon’s is especially fun if you’re a SpongeBob fan—there’s even a quiz about which slime prank best matches your personality! Hopefully, all the rough edges are smoothed out now, and Viacom can focus on making the January 23 launch as smooth as possible.

User3:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

@User5 Wow, I didn’t even notice the SpongeBob quiz before—definitely heading back to nick.co.uk to play around with that now, haha. 😂

On a serious note, though, I agree that getting these URLs sorted out was an essential move. The transition to January 23 needs to run like clockwork if Viacom wants these new channels to make an impact on Freeview. Let’s hope TMF doesn’t have to be the “webpage babysitter” for any more of Viacom’s placeholders, lol!

User1:
Subject: Re: Website Links on Placeholders Were Wrong for a While!

Haha, thanks for all the replies, everyone! Sounds like we can all agree that TMF handled the awkward situation pretty well, but linking to the proper Nickelodeon, MTV Hits, and Paramount Comedy websites is definitely the way to go.

It’s exciting to see the details falling into place for January 23—just one more reason to stay glued to Freeview for the next few weeks! Let’s keep an eye out in case anything else pops up (or goes wrong again, lol). Here’s hoping the next update is smoother! 😄

Write a conversation where Media Bill 2006 REQUIRES tech companies to prioritize channels owned by PSBs (and any associated channel), so that basically forces you to be able to recieve the following (list all the BBC, ITV, 4 and Five channels), Also 2 Viacom channels under the Five category,


Forum Post: Media Bill 2006 - Prioritizing PSB Channels (February 27, 2006)

User1:
Subject: Media Bill 2006 - What Does It Mean for Freeview?

Hey everyone,

So I just read about the new Media Bill for 2006, and it looks like it’s going to have a big impact on how Freeview (and other TV platforms) work. From what I understand, it will REQUIRE tech companies and TV platforms to prioritize channels owned by Public Service Broadcasters (PSBs) and any associated channels in their lineup or systems.

That means we’ll all HAVE to be able to receive not only the standard PSB channels like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Five, but also their related digital channels. This got me thinking—what exact channels does this refer to? Are we talking about just Freeview, or more? And which Viacom channels fall under this through Five’s ownership?

Here’s what I think the list might look like—feel free to chime in if I missed anything!

BBC Channels (PSB 1)
1️⃣ BBC One
2️⃣ BBC Two
3️⃣ BBC Three
4️⃣ BBC Four
5️⃣ CBBC
6️⃣ CBeebies
7️⃣ BBC News 24
8️⃣ BBC Parliament

ITV Channels (PSB 2)
1️⃣ ITV1 (regional/central PSB service)
2️⃣ ITV2
3️⃣ ITV3
4️⃣ ITV4
5️⃣ CITV

Channel 4 Channels (PSB 3)
1️⃣ Channel 4
2️⃣ E4
3️⃣ More4
4️⃣ Film4
5️⃣ 4Music

Five Channels (PSB 5 via Viacom ownership)
1️⃣ Five
2️⃣ Five Life (soon to rebrand as Fiver)
3️⃣ Five US (Viacom owned)
4️⃣ Paramount Comedy (Viacom owned)

Does this mean devices/platforms must guarantee perfect support and prioritization for ALL of these channels? Curious how this plays out for Freeview, cable, satellite, and streaming platforms (like emerging IPTV services).

Thoughts?

User2:
Subject: Re: Media Bill 2006 - What Does It Mean for Freeview?

Great breakdown, User1! You’ve pretty much nailed the list. The Media Bill 2006 is really interesting because its main focus seems to be keeping PSB content front and center—ensuring it doesn’t get buried behind paywalls or overshadowed by commercial broadcasters.

And yes, this includes their associated channels too, which is why you’re spot on with including the likes of Five Life, Five US, and Paramount Comedy (since they’re technically under Five’s umbrella via Viacom).

What’s fascinating here is that TV manufacturers and platforms now have to prioritize these channels in their software—things like channel guides and user interfaces must highlight them, PLUS the platforms must guarantee access to these services. That’s HUGE for ensuring PSB content remains accessible and prominent, especially as digital TV continues to expand.

But yeah, it begs the question—how will this affect increasingly competitive spaces like streamed TV and IPTV platforms? Will tech companies push back because they’ll have to reserve “prime spots” for PSBs and risk angering commercial channels?

User3:
Subject: Re: Media Bill 2006 - What Does It Mean for Freeview?

User1, that’s an excellent write-up of the channels! The bill really seems to lock in protections for PSBs and their spin-offs in a way that future-proofs them as technology shifts. The fact that it lists all channels directly or indirectly owned by BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Five really shows the government is trying to safeguard these brands for the long haul.

What’s funny, though, is that even though Five US and Paramount Comedy are owned by Viacom, they still fall under the “PSB prioritization” umbrella just because Five is the parent brand. It’s a nice loophole for Viacom, honestly, since other standalone Viacom channels (like MTV or Nick) won’t get this legal protection.

I wonder if this will shift Viacom’s strategy at all? Maybe they’ll push even more high-profile content through Paramount Comedy or rebrand Five Life/US further to emphasize their association with Five. It’s hard not to think there’s an opportunity here.

User4:
Subject: Re: Media Bill 2006 - What Does It Mean for Freeview?

@User1, you’ve got the list down perfectly! I’m especially interested in how this will affect the way EPGs (Electronic Program Guides) are set up across platforms. Platforms like Sky and Virgin already prioritize PSB content in their guides to an extent, but smaller Freeview-compatible boxes often lack proper organization. Maybe this bill will force even budget-conscious boxes to ensure PSB channels (and their associates) always show up first in the listings?

I also think it emphasizes the importance of channels like Five Life and Five US. Before this bill, they might’ve felt like lower-priority spin-offs, but now they’re legally protected as part of the larger public service ecosystem. I wouldn’t be surprised if more Viacom content starts flowing through those channels as a result—it could be a way to increase their reach while staying under the “PSB” umbrella.

User5:
Subject: Re: Media Bill 2006 - What Does It Mean for Freeview?

You know, this bill is a fascinating way to address the growing dominance of commercial-only platforms like Sky or potentially subscription-based IPTV services. By forcing prioritization of core PSBs and their associated channels, the government is drawing a clear line about who comes first in the UK TV ecosystem.

I do agree that Five US and Paramount Comedy being lumped into this group is a huge win for Viacom—it guarantees those channels nearly universal availability in the UK, which is a massive boost compared to channels like MTV or Nickelodeon that don’t get the same protections. Paramount Comedy is especially well-positioned here—it’s both Viacom-owned AND tied to Five, so its niche content will stay prominent for anyone tuning into Freeview or other platforms.

User1:
Subject: Re: Media Bill 2006 - What Does It Mean for Freeview?

Thanks for all the feedback! It’s definitely clear this bill could create a lot of interesting dynamics in the TV landscape, especially for Viacom-owned channels like Paramount Comedy and Five US. They’re now firmly part of the prioritized PSB content ecosystem, which feels like a major advantage over Viacom’s non-Five channels.

I’ll be curious to see how platforms like Freeview adapt to this over time—whether they shift the UI or place prominent “PSB first” guides to ensure compliance. And it’ll be fascinating to see if Viacom invests even more resources into Five’s associated channels, knowing they’ll now have guaranteed visibility and access in the UK.

Here’s hoping the end result is better access and quality for all viewers! 🎉


Write a reply where 2 channels were always going to be covered because it is considered a "alternative" in case most channels are saddled with news about a royal death, and there must be a easy escape hatch