What Has Happened to TCM on Sky? Why is TCM Closing Down?
by Priyanka P
Updated Jul 12, 2023
What Has Happened To Tcm On Sky?
Turner Classic Movies (TCM) has ceased its operations on Sky in the UK. This decision came as part of the channel's closure in the UK and Ireland after 24 years of broadcasting.
The shutdown of TCM on Sky means that the channel will no longer be available for viewers on Sky Q, Sky Glass, and Sky Stream. Additionally, TCM's +1 channel has also been removed from the Sky platform. Previously, TCM was accessible on channel 315 on Sky Q, Sky Glass, and Sky Stream.
This development has disappointed fans of the channel who enjoyed TCM's curated selection of classic films. Actor Brian Cox, known for his role in the HBO and Sky series Succession, expressed his concern and dismay over the decision made by TCM's management. Cox emphasized the importance of TCM as a valuable resource for understanding the history of cinema and appreciating the art of acting.
It is worth noting that TCM's closure on Sky is part of the broader shutdown of the channel in the UK and Ireland. TCM's presence on other platforms, such as Virgin Media, has also been terminated. On Virgin Media, TCM was available on channel 415, but it will no longer be accessible.
The reasons behind TCM's closure on Sky and other platforms have not been officially confirmed. However, it has been reported that the company experienced several departures of senior executives, including the general manager, lead programmer, film festival organizer, production executive, and marketer, which may have contributed to the decision.
Despite TCM's departure from Sky in the UK, the channel remains available in the United States through platforms like Hulu. However, the closure of TCM on Sky marks the end of an era for UK and Ireland viewers who appreciated TCM's dedication to showcasing classic films and preserving the heritage of cinema.
Why Is Tcm Closing Down?
The reason for TCM's closure in the UK and Ireland has not been officially confirmed.
Declining viewership:
In recent years, there has been a decline in the viewership of traditional cable channels, as more people are cutting the cord and moving to streaming services. TCM may have been seen as a less attractive option for viewers, as it only shows classic films.
Cost-cutting:
Warner Bros., the parent company of TCM, may have decided to close the channel as a way to cut costs. The channel was not a major profit driver, and it may have been seen as a luxury that Warner Bros. could no longer afford.
Competition from streaming services:
TCM faces increasing competition from streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. These services offer a wide variety of classic films, as well as newer films, and they are often more convenient for viewers than traditional cable channels.
How can I watch TCM in the UK?
Here are the ways you can watch TCM in the UK:
With a cable TV subscription:
Through streaming services:
What is TCM in the UK?
TCM in the UK was a pay television channel that featured classic movies from the Turner Entertainment and Warner Bros. film libraries. It was launched in 1999 and was initially free-to-air. However, it became encrypted in 2004 and joined Sky's subscription packages.
In 2009, the channel underwent a graphical makeover and a new logo was introduced. This was an attempt to attract a younger audience, and several new films were added to the channel's catalogue. A high definition version of the channel launched in 2012, and the standard definition version began broadcasting in 16:9 widescreen.
In 2013, a one-hour timeshift channel, TCM Movies +1, launched. The HD channel closed in 2019, and the channel was renamed TCM Movies. It closed on July 7, 2023, and some of its former film programming was moved to sister channel Quest.
Key Features of TCM in the UK
What Has Happened To Tcm On Sky? Why Is Tcm Closing Down? - FAQs
Turner Classic Movies (TCM) has ceased its operations on Sky in the UK. This decision came as part of the channel's closure in the UK and Ireland after 24 years of broadcasting.
TCM in the UK launched on February 2, 1999.
TCM in the UK is no longer available in the UK. However, some of the channel's former film programming has been moved to sister channel Quest.
TCM in the UK showed classic movies from the Turner Entertainment and Warner Bros. film libraries, including films from MGM, RKO Pictures, and others.
TCM in the UK was initially free-to-air, but it became encrypted in 2004 and joined Sky's subscription packages.