Pop (stylized as PoP or POP) is a British free-to-air children's television channel owned by Narrative Entertainment UK Limited, targeting audiences aged 6 to 10.[1] Launched on 29 May 2003 as Toons&Tunes by Chart Show Channels (CSC) Media Group, it later took on its current name and was sold to Sony Pictures Television, who in turn sold it and its local channels to Narrative Entertainment UK Limited in 2021.

History
Pop was originally launched on 29 May 2003 by Chart Show Channels (CSC) Media Group as Toons&Tunes.[2] Toons&Tunes was then later rebranded as its current name, Pop (formerly stylized as pop and POP!) in the following month. In September 2003, a timeshift sister network - Pop Plus, was launched.[3] Originally, the network focused on music videos with animated programming also part of the schedule, but with the numerous music video network options on British television at the time, this focus was quickly abandoned in 2004, when the animated content became much more prominent. Music videos continued to be carried on and off until 2010, before eventually being abandoned entirely.[citation needed] Initially, the channel broadcast animated content sourced from Granada Media's programming library under a six-month non-exclusive deal, before transitioning to content sourced mainly from DIC Entertainment and Nelvana.

In the channel's early years, links were presented by Rorry, formerly known as Tricky, an animated lime green dragon who used to host a Saturday morning show in the autumn of 1997, but was repurposed for the Pop channel. Tricky spoke with a northern English dialect, while Rorry spoke in a different voice with a Scottish accent, both versions were animated live through computer cues. He was accompanied by Purrdy, a dragon/cat hybrid who also appeared in the original Tricky programme on ITV, it was sometimes followed by a programme known as "The Cheeky Monkey Show" which features the live links of the animated coloured monkeys known as "The Cheeky Monkeys".

In July 2004, Pop Plus was rebranded as Tiny Pop with the channel's pre-school shows being moved over, alongside the Cheeky Monkeys.

On 10 August 2007, a one-hour timeshift service - Pop +1 was launched on Sky, alongside Tiny Pop +1. On 11 October, the channel was launched on Virgin Media, alongside Tiny Pop.[4]

On 19 May 2008, Pop +1 ceased broadcast and was replaced with a new sister network - Kix!.

On 1 February 2011, Pop was removed from Virgin Media to make way for the cable launch of True Entertainment.[5]

Between 2012 and 2015, the mascots were the MoonGoons, a group of animal appearing aliens

On 20 March 2014, Pop was launched on Freeview.[6] Prior to April 2016, Pop was only available in areas where there is a local TV channel. On 14 July, Pop +1 was relaunched on Sky, replacing Kix +1.

On 1 April 2016, Pop moved to a wider coverage nationwide freeview mix, becoming available to over 90% of the country.[7] The capacity vacated by Pop on the local multiplex was used to transmit Kix from 7 April 2016. Pop +1 moved to LCN channel 128, to release 127 for use by Kix, but was otherwise unaffected, continuing to broadcast locally to Manchester only until its eventual withdrawal from Freeview.

On 1 September 2020, Pop rebranded its on-air identity, with the premiere of Bakugan: Armored Alliance.[8] And on the same day, starting with Pokémon Journeys: The Series, the network became the new British home of the Pokémon anime, moving from its previous broadcasters, ITV1 and CITV, of over 20 years.[9]

On 9 November 2022, Narrative Entertainment announced the launch of a new FAST channel, Pop Kids, to stream on Samsung TV Plus, the new FAST network airs shows from Pop and Tiny Pop.[10]

Sometime in 2022, Pop began to branch into original content for the first time, as they approached Joe Tasker for a new show called Swipe It! With Joe Taker.

On 19 July 2023, Pop reverted to broadcasting on the local-TV multiplex, switching places with sibling film channel Great! Romance.[11] In September 2023, it was announced that Pop Kids would split into two FAST channels, with Tiny Pop getting its own channel, and with Pop replacing the current FAST channel.[12]

On 7 February 2024, Pop and other Narrative Entertainment channels were removed from Freesat to make way for the closure of the linear variant of Tiny Pop,[13] however it was relaunched in 21 August in the same year, but not on Freesat.

In December 2024, Pop's website was closed down and was replaced by Pop Player.

On 1 December 2024, Pop and Tiny Pop got turned into a hybrid streaming channel on Freeview (UK) but it continues to be a linear channel on Sky UK and Virgin Media. [14]

Live action presenters:
Joe Tasker (2022-2023)
Jamie Rickers (2025-)
Anna Williamson (2025-)

Current programming
Pop
The channel sources its programming from multiple production and distribution studios. Programming includes original shows such as Swipe It! With Joe Tasker, and acquired programming such as Alvinnn!!! and the Chipmunks, Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir and Pokémon. The channel also includes movies and such as the Barbie television films, Pokémon and Monster High.[1]

Upcoming programming
Mermicorno: Starfall (early 2025)[2]
Kikoriki (First time the current dub has aired, the GoGoRiki dub aired on Pop in the early 2010s) [2] [4]
The Hollow [4]
Phineas and Ferb [2] [4]
Original programming
Swipe It! With Joe Tasker[3]
Acquired programming
44 Cats[4][5]
Annedroids[6]
Battle for Dream Island [4]
Bakugan[4]
Bakugan: Geogan Rising[4]
Bakugan: Evolutions[4]
Bakugan: Legends[4]
Barbie: A Touch of Magic[4][7]
Barbie: It Takes Two[4][8]
Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot[4]
Droners[4][9]
Grizzy & the Lemmings (also on Boomerang, CBBC and BBC iPlayer)[4][10]
The InBESTigators[4][11]
Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts[4][12]
Kung Fu Sock[4][13][14]
Lego City Adventures (also on Nickelodeon)[4][15]
Lego Dreamzzz: Trials of the Dream Chasers (also on ITVX)[4][16]
Lego Friends: Girls on a Mission[4][17]
Lego Friends: The Next Chapter[4][18]
L.O.L. Surprise! House of Surprises![4][19]
Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir (also on Disney+)[4][20]
Moley[4]
Monster High (also on Nickelodeon)[4][21][22]
My Goldfish is Evil! [4]
Polly Pocket[4][23]
Pokémon[4][24]
Pokémon Master Journeys: The Series[4][25]
Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series[4]
Power Players[25]
Power Rangers
Power Rangers Dino Fury[4][26]
Rainbow Butterfly Unicorn Kitty[4][27]
Sadie Sparks[4][28]
Shasha & Milo[4]
She-Ra and the Princesses of Power[4][29]
Skylanders Academy[4][30]
Squish[4][31]
Team Jay[32]
Total DramaRama[4][33] (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Unicorn Academy
Films and specials
Barbie: Princess Adventure
Barbie & Chelsea: The Lost Birthday
Barbie: Big City, Big Dreams
Barbie: Mermaid Power
Master Moley By Royal Invitation
Miraculous World: New York, United Heroez
Miraculous World: Shanghai, The Legend of Ladydragon
Monster High: The Movie
Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew
Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. the Sword of Justice (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You![a] (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us[a] (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Tiny Pop
Tiny Pop airs preschool programs such as Gabby's Dollhouse, Super Wings and PJ Masks.[34]

Original programming
DinoCity
Acquired programming
Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe[35]
Apollo's Tall Tales[36]
Baby Born
Barbie: A Touch of Magic[37]
Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures[38]
Billy the Cowboy Hamster[39]
Care Bears: Unlock the Magic[36][40] (2019–present)
Caring For Each Other
Cookie Monster's Foodie Truck[36]
Cookie's Crumby Pictures
Dino Ranch
Ella, Oscar & Hoo[36]
Elmo and Tango's Mysterious Mysteries
Elmo's World[36]
Esme & Roy[36]
Gabby's Dollhouse[41]
Gigantosaurus[36][42] (2020–present)
Go! Go! Cory Carson[43]
Grizzy & the Lemmings (also on Boomerang, CBBC and BBC iPlayer)[44]
Gus – The Itsy Bitsy Knight
Hello Kitty: Super Style![45]
Jeremy & Jazzy
Little Bear (English dub of Pompon Ours)[46][47]
Masha and the Bear (also on Cartoonito)[36][48]
Mighty Express (2022–present[49])[50][51]
Molang[36][52] (2018–present)
Monchhichi[36]
Mush-Mush and the Mushables
My Little Pony: Pony Life[36] (2020–present)
Petronix Defenders (2022–present[49])[53]
Pikwik Pack
PJ Masks[36][54] (2017–present)
Remy & Boo[36]
Simon[36]
Smart Cookies[36]
Strawberry Shortcake: Berry in the Big City (2022–present)[55]
Super Grover 2.0
Super Wings[36][56] (2017–Present)
Trotties[57]
Yeti Tales[36]
Pop Max
Pop Max mainly airs TV shows from sister channel Pop, such as Pokémon, Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir and Grizzy & the Lemmings. Pop Max airs movies and specials similar to Pop, but it is mostly limited to Pokémon movies.[58]

Annedroids
Bakugan[59]
Bakugan: Evolutions
Dragon Ball Super
Droners[4][60]
Ethan Gamer Plays Roblox
Grizzy & the Lemmings
Generator Rex
The InBESTigators[4][61]
Kipo and The Age of Wonderbeasts
Kung Fu Sock
Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir
Monster Buster Club
Monster High (also on Nickelodeon)[4][62][63]
My Goldfish is Evil!
Nate Is Late[64]
Pokémon Journeys: The Series
Pokémon Journeys: The Series[65]
Pokémon Master Journeys: The Series[25]
Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series
Power Players[25]
Power Rangers Dino Fury
PocketWatch Ultimate MishMash
Art For Kids Hub[66]
Denis[67]
LankyBox[67]
The Sensibles [4]
Skylanders Academy[68]
Shasha & Milo[4]
Shasha & Milo: Shorts
She-Ra: Princess of Power
Space Chickens in Space[69]
Squish[70][4]
Skatoony [4]
Swipe It! With Joe Tasker[71]
Talking Tom & Friends[72]
The Strange Chores[73]
The Secret Saturdays [4]
Xiaolin Showdown [4]

Info about some of the more obscure shows:

The Sensibles - a series of short, humorous films produced by Jetix, 12foot6 and STANGA, The films tell the story of the Sensibles, who work for the GNN Galactic News Network. They are a team observing the lives of the inhabitants of Earth. They observe everyday objects that are obvious to Earthlings.

Characters
Oi – the voice and presenter of space news. His red wig has always caused him problems, especially before going on air.
Bzzz – the chief of reporters. Equipped with an antenna and microphones. Locates the reporters' target.
Zzoom – cameraman. Observes and photographs given objects.
Blerah - has an incredibly large tongue. It licks objects and scans their taste. It is thanks to information from Blerah that Oi guesses what a given object is.
Cosmic Viewers – watch GNN's Galactic News and express their fear or admiration.

My Goldfish is Evil - The series follows the adventures of 11-year-old Beanie, and his pet goldfish, Admiral Bubbles. The superintelligent goldfish has dreams of bringing a reign of terror on the city and of world domination. Frequently, he escapes from his bowl in his attempts at mischief. With Beanie's mother always failing to believe him, Beanie has to deal with him

Kung Fu Sock - Eight-year-old Tee Zeng finds an unusual sock that is actually a Kung Fu master named Kung Fu Wa from another world. Wearing the sock transforms Tee Zeng into super heroine Kung Fu Girl. She and Kung Fu Wa must complete missions and protect their home, Starry Island

Total DramaRama
Films and specials
Monster High: Electrified
Pokémon the Movie: Black—Victini and Reshiram and White—Victini and Zekrom (also on CBBC and BBC iPlayer)
Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened (also on BBC iPlayer). Write a forum conversation asking if it's true weekend mornings are a revival of GMTV's Toonattik


Forum Thread Title: Is Weekend Mornings on Pop a Revival of GMTV's Toonattik?

User1: Hey everyone! I heard a rumor that Pop is bringing back some kind of weekend morning programming similar to GMTV’s Toonattik. Is there any truth to this? I used to love that show when I was a kid!

User2: I think I saw something about it on social media too! Toonattik was such a classic. I loved how it showcased different cartoons every weekend. If Pop is planning something similar, I’d be excited to check it out!

User3: From what I know, Pop has been focusing more on its animated content recently, especially with shows like Pokémon and Miraculous. Bringing in a weekend morning show could definitely fit that vibe! They’ve been revamping their schedule.

User4: That would be awesome! However, I’m not sure if they’re reviving the specific format of Toonattik. But they might do something inspired by it if they target the same audience. We might get similar animated programming with live segments or hosted links, which is what made Toonattik so engaging.

User1: Right! Toonattik was all about interaction and fun segments in between the cartoons. If they can capture that spirit with today’s shows, it could be something special.

User5: I think it would be great to see some familiar elements from Toonattik, like those memorable hosts and the fun competitions they used to have. Plus, it’s an excellent way to connect with newer audiences while bringing back some nostalgia for older viewers.

User6: We should keep an eye on Pop’s announcements! With their recent shift toward original content and their strong lineup of shows, a weekend morning revival could definitely happen. I personally would love to see a combination of new and classic animated series.

User2: Absolutely! I'll be on the lookout for any news. If they announce anything concrete, I hope they'll also reveal the hosts and format. I miss those interactive parts!

User1: Same here! If anyone finds more information or updates about this, please share! It would be amazing to see how they execute this idea. 🤞

User3: Definitely! Let’s hope for the best. It’s exciting to think about how channels are evolving and bringing back elements from the past while introducing new content. I’ll keep checking the Pop website!

User6: Good idea! Who knows, we might end up with the perfect Saturday morning lineup reminiscent of our childhood but freshened up for newer viewers. Fingers crossed!

User4: Looking forward to it! Let’s keep this conversation going, and hopefully, we’ll have some exciting news soon.

User5: Agreed! Catch you all later!


Write a follow up where they already have the hosts


Forum Thread Title: Weekend Mornings on Pop - Hosts Revealed!

User1: Wow, guys! I just saw the official announcement about the weekend morning programming on Pop, and they have revealed the hosts! This is super exciting!

User2: No way! Who are the hosts? I can’t wait to hear who they chose to bring that Toonattik vibe back!

User1: They’re bringing back Joe Tasker, along with Anna Williamson, and Jamie Rickers! They’re going for a fun mix of energy and experience. I've seen Joe on Pop before with his show, and Anna has hosted quite a bit on children’s TV as well!

User3: That sounds fantastic! I love Joe’s energy, and Anna has a great rapport with kids. Jamie is also such a familiar face from some of the earlier shows. I think they’ll do an amazing job engaging the audience!

User4: This is shaping up to be a really fun combination! I can already imagine them having those silly banter segments in between the cartoons, just like Toonattik used to have. I wonder if they’ll do any interactive games or competitions.

User5: They definitely should! Having live segments could really bridge that gap between watching cartoons and being involved—just like the old days. I hope they include viewer participation somehow, maybe through social media or phone calls.

User2: Ooh, I can just picture it! They could even have special guest appearances, maybe some familiar faces from the shows they’re airing during the segment. That would add an extra layer of nostalgia!

User1: Exactly! Plus, they could rotate guests or even have a different theme each week, which would keep things fresh and exciting for the audience.

User6: I'm really looking forward to seeing how they incorporate both new and classic shows. With the hosts they’ve picked, I feel like they can definitely capture that spirit of fun and adventure that Toonattik had.

User3: Same here! And since they’re already familiar with working with kids’ programs, I’m sure they’ll find a way to keep it interactive and engaging. I can’t wait for the premiere!

User5: If they stick to the fun segments and quick sketches, this could become a must-watch weekend morning block! I think it has the potential to become its own classic series for this generation.

User1: Absolutely! You all have me hyped now! I’ll keep an eye out for the start date so we can all plan a watch party or something. Let’s keep the conversation going as we hear more updates!

User2: Sounds like a plan! I’ll be on the lookout for promos and teasers as well. Can’t wait to see how they introduce everything!

User4: Me too! Let’s get ready for some nostalgia with a fresh twist. Exciting times ahead for weekend mornings on Pop!

User6: For sure! Here’s to weekends full of fun and laughter! 🎉 Looking forward to sharing the experience with you all!


Write a rpely saying also Jamie and Anna hosted the OG Toonattik


User3: You know what’s even cooler? Both Jamie Rickers and Anna Williamson were actually hosts of the original Toonattik! It’s like a full-circle moment having them back for this new weekend morning block on Pop. How fitting is that? They were part of that nostalgic childhood experience, and now they’re coming back to bring that magic to a whole new generation!

I can't wait to see how their chemistry has evolved over the years! It’s going to be so exciting to watch them interact with kids again, just like they did back in the day. This feels like it’s meant to be!


Write a conversation asking what shows are joining Pop this year


Forum Thread Title: What New Shows are Coming to Pop This Year?

User1: Hey everyone! As we gear up for the new programming season, I’m curious about what new shows are joining Pop this year. Anyone have the scoop?

User2: Great question! I’ve been wondering the same thing. I know they’ve been branching into original content recently, so I’m hoping for some exciting additions!

User3: From what I heard, they’re planning to add some fresh titles to their lineup. I think Mermicorno: Starfall is one of the upcoming shows, along with Kikoriki! I loved Kikoriki back in the day, and I can't wait to see it return!

User4: Yes! I read about that too! They’re also bringing in some classic titles like Phineas and Ferb. That show was hilarious; it's great to see it coming back to our screens!

User5: That’s fantastic news! I'm also hoping they’ll incorporate more original series or specials. Last I heard, Swipe It! With Joe Tasker is already on the roster, which could be fun!

User1: For sure! It sounds like they’re really trying to mix it up with some new shows and familiar classics, which is a smart move! I’m looking forward to what else they announce.

User6: Right? Plus, I think with the Pokémon series being such a staple on their channel, having new content alongside it will keep the excitement going! Any idea on exactly when these new shows will start airing?

User3: I believe they’re aiming for early 2025 for most of the new launches, but they might have sneak peeks or special episodes before then. It would be great if they added short teasers to get everyone hyped up!

User2: That would be awesome! Hopefully, they’ll announce a full schedule soon. I’ll keep checking their website for updates! If anyone else hears anything, definitely share!

User5: Absolutely! Let’s keep an eye out for those announcements. I’m excited to see how Pop evolves this year!


Write a conversation where also Squish is gone from Max, replaced with another Pokemon in it's first slot and another Rex in it's second


Forum Thread Title: Changes Coming to Pop Max - What Happened to Squish?

User1: Hey everyone! I just noticed that Squish is no longer airing on Pop Max. Does anyone know what happened? I was a big fan of that show!

User2: Yeah, I just saw that too! It seems like they’ve replaced Squish in its first slot with a Pokémon series. I think it’s Pokémon Journeys: The Series now! Honestly, that’s a solid pick since Pokémon is such a hit with the younger audience.

User3: That makes sense! Pokémon always brings in viewers, especially with how popular the franchise is. But what’s replacing Squish in the second slot?

User4: From what I can gather, they’ve replaced it with another series—it's Droners! It seems like they’re really focusing on animated content that appeals to kids right now.

User1: Interesting choices! I liked Squish, but if they’re swapping it out for more Pokémon and Droners, I guess I can’t complain. Droners has some cute concepts and action!

User5: Exactly! Even though I’ll miss Squish, I think this might attract more viewers. Plus, the Pokémon series is always evolving, so there’s plenty for fans to keep up with. And Droners brings in its own fun element with the flying drones and adventures.

User2: True! It feels like Pop Max is focusing on brands that have a strong following. Pokémon is a great way to keep fans engaged, especially with all the new content around the games and movies.

User3: Yeah, it’s smart programming on Pop Max's part. I’m curious to see how the viewership changes with this new lineup. Hopefully, they’ll continue to refresh it as the year goes on!

User1: Agreed! It’s always good to see what new shows they bring in. Maybe we’ll see even more variety as they push towards original content alongside those classics!

User5: Let’s hope for the best! If anyone finds out more about upcoming shows or any changes, keep us updated! It’s always fun to speculate about what’s coming next.

User4: For sure! I’ll keep an eye out for any announcements on new programming, especially for Pop Max! Let’s hope for some exciting content ahead!


Write a conversation asking what shows are Pop Max exclusive, he knows Monster Buster Club, Xiaolin Showdown and Generator Rex don't air on normal Pop