User1:
Topic: Current Shows on Paramount Comedy Channel UK?
August 12, 2005

Hi all,
I was wondering if anyone could help me out. I’m trying to find out what the current shows airing on Paramount Comedy Channel UK are right now. I haven’t had the channel for too long and would love to know what to look out for. Any recommendations or info on their schedule would be great!

Thanks in advance.

User2:
August 12, 2005

Hey User1,
From what I’ve seen recently, Paramount Comedy Channel UK has quite a few staple shows. They usually show classics like That '70s Show, South Park, and Two and a Half Men. They also have some original UK programming, such as The 11 O'Clock Show reruns and Comedy Map of Britain. Don’t forget The Daily Show, which is always good.

Their schedule can change a bit but those are the main ones I catch regularly.

User3:
August 13, 2005

To add on: They also air Chappelle’s Show sometimes, which is brilliant if you like US comedy. Plus, there are stand-up specials and sometimes British panel shows. The late night slots sometimes have some gems too.

Check out their website for the detailed listings or your TV guide to get exact times.

User4:
August 14, 2005

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to mention the Paramount Comedy Now shows they’re running. They’re new comedy series showcasing upcoming UK comedians. I caught a couple last week and they were pretty funny!

If you like alternative comedy, keep an eye out for those.

User1:
August 15, 2005

Thanks so much for all the info! I’ll definitely check out those shows and see what fits my taste. Paramount Comedy Channel seems like a great channel to have for comedy fans. Cheers!

Write a reply listing all 20 current shows

User5:
August 16, 2005

Hey all, just thought I’d jump in with a more complete list of the current shows airing on Paramount Comedy UK right now. From what I’ve gathered recently, here are the main 20 shows:

That '70s Show
South Park
Two and a Half Men
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Chappelle’s Show
The 11 O’Clock Show
Comedy Map of Britain
Paramount Comedy Now (various stand-up specials)
Drawn Together
Wonder Showzen
The Office (UK version)
Da Ali G Show
Family Guy
Monty Python’s Flying Circus
Black Books
Father Ted
Absolutely Fabulous
Stressed Eric
Malcolm In The Middle
Smack the Pony
Hope this helps anyone looking for a full rundown of what’s currently on! Enjoy the laughs.

Write a conversation asking how long have they had the current "logo in the middle of screen" branding, A user says 1999, as that is when Paramount Channel initially dropped all non comedy shows and changed it's name to "Paramount Comedy Channel"

User6:
August 17, 2005

Hey everyone, quick question – how long has Paramount Comedy UK been using that "logo in the middle of the screen" branding? You know, the one that shows the Paramount Comedy logo right in the center during shows. It’s a bit distracting sometimes, so I was wondering when they started with that style?

User7:
August 17, 2005

Oh yeah, I remember that! If I’m not mistaken, they started doing that around 1999. That’s when the channel dropped all non-comedy shows and officially rebranded from Paramount Channel to Paramount Comedy Channel. The new branding, including the logo placement in the middle of the screen, came in at the same time to reinforce their comedy-only focus. It’s been a while now!

Write a conversation saying that motif is used for the idents, The shows just have a normal screen bug at the top right corner of the screen

User8:
August 18, 2005

Hey, just to clarify about that logo in the middle of the screen thing — that motif you’re talking about is actually used only for the idents and promos, not during the shows themselves. When the actual shows are airing, Paramount Comedy just uses a normal screen bug, which is usually a small logo at the top right corner. So if you’re seeing a big logo smack in the center during a show, that might be a glitch or something unusual.

User9:
August 18, 2005

Yep, exactly what User8 said. The big logo in the middle is part of their channel idents and promos between programs. Once the show starts, it switches to the smaller, less intrusive bug in the top right corner. The central logo would be way too distracting for actual viewing otherwise!

Write a conversation on September 1, "I was watching Seinfeld on Paramount earlier, and couldn't help notice that a promo saying "Paramount Comedy Channel is changing on September 19" is appearing during the breaks, it shows the current logo falling into a hole, so is there any news on a presentation or logo change?"

User10:
September 1, 2005

Hey everyone, I was watching Seinfeld on Paramount Comedy earlier today, and during the breaks, I kept seeing a promo that says "Paramount Comedy Channel is changing on September 19.” The promo shows the current logo falling into a hole or something like that. Does anyone know if there’s any news about a rebranding, new presentation, or a logo change coming up? Just curious what’s going on!

Write 7 replies about it, A user jokes saying they'll probs just swap the slots of South Park and Family Guy

User11:
September 1, 2005

Oh, interesting! I hadn’t noticed that promo yet. Seems like Paramount Comedy is gearing up for a refresh. I wonder if it’s just a new logo or if they’ll change the whole channel look and feel. Looking forward to seeing what they do!

User12:
September 1, 2005

Yeah, I saw that promo too! I think there were rumors a while back about them updating the branding to something a bit slicker and more modern. Maybe they’re finally making the move. September 19 isn’t far off now.

User13:
September 1, 2005

Hmmm… I hope it’s not just some subtle tweak. The current logo is pretty iconic for me. But then again, it’s been the same since ’99, so a refresh could be nice. Hopefully the on-screen bugs won’t get any bigger!

User14:
September 1, 2005

I wonder if they’ll add more original UK content alongside the changes? Seems like a good time to shake up the schedule a bit.

User15:
September 1, 2005

It’s about time they updated things – I've always thought the idents felt a little dated. A new look might attract more viewers too. Hopefully, the comedy shows we love stay on though!

User16:
September 1, 2005

Haha, I’m betting they’ll just swap the slots of South Park and Family Guy and call it a day! Classic channel "rebranding" move, right?

User17:
September 1, 2005

@User16 Haha! Could very well be! But I’m expecting some fancy new graphics and maybe a revamped schedule. Let’s see what happens on the 19th!

Write a conversation asking if it's true they're ditching the "Channel" from their name, A user has the answer

User18:
September 2, 2005

Hey, I heard a rumor that Paramount Comedy Channel is going to drop the word "Channel" from their name and just be called "Paramount Comedy" now. Does anyone know if that’s true? Seems like a small change but might signal something bigger.

User19:
September 2, 2005

Yeah, that’s correct! The rebranding on September 19 will drop "Channel" from the name, so it’ll just be "Paramount Comedy" going forward. It’s part of their effort to modernize the brand and make it feel less like a traditional TV channel and more like a comedy destination. They’re updating their logo and on-air look to reflect that too.

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

September 5, 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 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. MTV, Nickelodeon, TMF, BET, VH1, Five, and Spike are also expected to receive new looks over the course of late 2005/early 2006

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.
Write a forum conversation Sep 5 2005, A user asks what time will the change take effect

User20:
September 5, 2005

Hey all, I just read about the big Paramount Comedy rebrand happening on September 19. Sounds pretty fun with all those quirky animated characters from 12Foot6! Does anyone know what time the new look and name will officially launch? Will it be at midnight or during prime time? Thanks!

Write replies

User21:
September 5, 2005

Good question! I haven’t seen an exact time announced yet, but usually these kinds of rebrands happen right at midnight so they can start fresh with the new day’s schedule. I’d bet on a midnight switch on the 19th.

User22:
September 5, 2005

Yeah, most channel rebrands tend to go live just after midnight. Keeps it nice and simple. Plus, they might kick off the new look with a special intro or some promos around then.

User23:
September 5, 2005

I’d guess it happens overnight too. Maybe they’ll start the new on-air presentation with the first show after midnight, like some classic or flagship comedy. Would be a neat way to officially welcome the change.

User24:
September 5, 2005

If they want to catch the biggest audience they might do something during prime time in the evening too. But knowing how these things usually go, midnight seems most likely for the full switch.

User25:
September 5, 2005

I hope they show a special launch promo or a montage of the new animated idents. The "weird cat thing" sounds hilarious! Would be a shame if they just quietly slip in the changes without any fanfare.

User26:
September 5, 2005

I saw a tweet from someone at 12Foot6 hinting that there will be a special animation intro sequence, so I’m pretty sure it’s going to be something they air right at the start of the new day — so midnight on September 19. Can’t wait to see it!

User27:
September 5, 2005

I’m with everyone else — midnight is the safe bet. If anyone hears anything more official about the exact time, please post it here! Would love to tune in right as it happens.

Write a reply listing the 6 shows that will be huge parts of this

User28:
September 5, 2005

Just to add, from what I've heard, these six shows are going to be huge parts of the new Paramount Comedy lineup and will get special promo focus during the rebrand:

That '70s Show
South Park
The Office (UK version)
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Chappelle's Show
Absolutely Fabulous
Looks like they’re sticking with a nice mix of classic US and UK comedy favourites! Should be an exciting fresh start.

Write a news article, Five are to launch spin off channels Five US and Five Life, say what date this happens, also changes are coming for most of the other Viacom UK networks in the coming months

Viacom UK to Launch Five US and Five Life Spin-Off Channels on October 10, 2005; Major Network Refreshes Underway

September 10, 2005 — London

Viacom’s UK division is gearing up for a significant expansion with the announcement of two new spin-off channels—Five US and Five Life—set to launch on October 10, 2005. The move marks an ambitious step in broadening the Five network’s offerings and aims to cater more specifically to viewers’ diverse tastes.

Five US will focus exclusively on American television shows, bringing popular dramas, comedies, and reality programming directly to UK audiences. Meanwhile, Five Life is designed for a female demographic, featuring lifestyle, entertainment, and reality series tailored to women’s interests.

The launch of these spin-offs follows the recent rebranding of Paramount Comedy (dropping “Channel” from its name), part of Viacom’s larger strategy to refresh its UK portfolio. Over the coming months, other flagship Viacom UK networks—including MTV, Nickelodeon, TMF, BET, VH1, and Spike—are also slated for updated visual identities and programming shifts to stay fresh and competitive in a rapidly changing television landscape.

Viacom UK executives have stressed that these changes are designed to offer viewers clearer channel propositions, more targeted content, and engaging, innovative branding that better reflect each channel’s unique character. With Five US and Five Life taking their place alongside existing channels, and the continued rollout of fresh looks across the Viacom family, UK audiences can expect a dynamic year ahead in television entertainment.

Further details on programming lineups and launch events will be announced as the October 10 launch date approaches.

Write a news article July 31 2005 titled "Viacom announce changes for networks in 2005", including some new networks

Viacom Announce Changes for Networks in 2005
July 31, 2005 — London

Viacom UK has revealed plans for a series of significant changes across its network portfolio during the remainder of 2005. Reflecting an ongoing commitment to refresh its brands and appeal to evolving audiences, the media giant announced rebranding efforts, programming updates, and the launch of new channels.

One of the headline moves involves Paramount Comedy Channel, which is set to drop "Channel" from its name and rebrand simply as Paramount Comedy in September. The revamped channel will feature a fresh visual identity created by London animation studio 12Foot6, known for their quirky and imaginative work. This move is part of Viacom’s strategy to position Paramount Comedy as a dedicated comedy destination with a unique, whimsical personality.

In addition, Viacom plans to debut several new networks to broaden its reach across various demographics. Among these forthcoming launches are:

Five US: A spin-off channel spotlighting popular American television drama, comedy, and reality programming tailored for UK audiences.
Five Life: Designed with a female demographic in mind, offering lifestyle, entertainment, and reality programming geared especially towards women.
Spike TV UK: Bringing a fresh take on male-oriented entertainment including action series, sports, and reality shows.
BET UK: Targeting urban and Afro-Caribbean audiences with a mix of music, entertainment, and cultural programming.
TMF (The Music Factory): Reinvented with a clearer focus on contemporary music and youth culture.
Alongside these channel launches, established Viacom brands such as MTV, Nickelodeon, VH1, and others will receive updated branding and revamped programming schedules. The changes are focused on providing clearer channel identities and more targeted content in response to shifting viewer preferences and a more competitive broadcasting environment.

Viacom UK executives stated, “This year marks a new chapter for us as we enhance our network offerings and visual styles to better engage viewers across all segments. The upcoming launches and rebrands will ensure that we continue to deliver compelling entertainment while fostering stronger connections with diverse audiences.”

These changes are expected to roll out through late 2005 and early 2006, with detailed announcements on programming and launch events to follow.

Stay tuned for further updates on Viacom UK’s evolving network landscape.

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! 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,

User1:
December 27, 2005
Has anyone else noticed that Paramount Comedy has suddenly launched a massive advertising campaign everywhere? I’ve been hearing their radio ads non-stop and just saw a big billboard in town. Plus, their promos are everywhere on Five, Five Life, Five US, and TMF. It’s like they want everyone to know they’re coming to Freeview!

User2:
December 27, 2005
Yeah, I noticed that too! I caught one of their cinema ads last weekend before the film started. Definitely a big push for the Freeview launch. They seem really serious about getting the word out. Outdoor ads, magazines, shopping centres… it’s literally everywhere.

User3:
December 27, 2005
I’m impressed. It’s probably the biggest campaign I’ve seen a digital channel do before a Freeview launch. With all those ads on the radio, TV, and even at the shops, they’re not messing about. Seems like Paramount Comedy wants to make a real splash.

User4:
December 27, 2005
It makes sense though — Freeview has such a big potential audience. Getting the word out this aggressively should help draw in loads of new viewers who didn’t have cable or satellite. Plus, seeing the ads all over the place definitely makes me more curious to check it out.

User1:
December 27, 2005
Absolutely! I don’t remember Nickelodeon or MTV Hits doing quite this much before their addition. Maybe Paramount Comedy’s campaign will set a new standard for channel launches on Freeview.

User2:
December 27, 2005
For sure! I wonder if this means they expect Paramount Comedy to be a big hit on Freeview. The cross-promotion on Viacom’s own channels like Five Life and TMF is pretty clever too — they’re targeting the audiences who already watch their network.

User3:
December 27, 2005
Yep, which is smart marketing. And the radio ads seem to be playing on all major UK stations, so it goes beyond just TV viewers. I’m betting they’ll have a big viewing boost once January 23rd rolls around.

User4:
December 27, 2005
I just hope they keep the momentum going after the launch. It would be great to see more campaigns like this for other channel debuts on Freeview.

User1:
December 27, 2005
Definitely excited to see how it all unfolds! January 23 can’t come soon enough. Who else is planning to tune in as soon as it hits Freeview?

User2:
December 27, 2005
Count me in! I’m curious to see how the programming looks on Freeview and how the picture quality stacks up. Seeing all that marketing has definitely got me hyped.

User3:
December 27, 2005
Same here — will be interesting to see if they keep those ads running right up to the day. This campaign is already hard to miss!

Write a conversation December 31 2005, Five just aired the final episode of their drama Family Affairs, Then they aired a promo for their latest US import: Prison Break, And then a Paramount ad