Global Radio enters TV

The UK’s largest commercial radio operator, Global Radio, is launching two new music television channels via its new Global Television division.

Based on two Global Radio brands, Heart and Capital FM, Heart TV and Capital TV will be available on Sky and Freesat platforms in September. Both channels will play music videos “non-stop,” alongside advertisements.

Global Radio also owns the UK radio stations Classic FM, XFM and talk station LBC. Last week it bought GMG Radio, which holds the Smooth and Real Radio stations, for £70m (US$110m).

The expansion comes as UK gossip magazine Heat, owned by Bauer Media, yesterday launched its own channel, Heat TV, which will air original content based on the lives of celebrities.

The channel, a joint venture between music and entertainment group Box TV, Bauer Media and terrestrial broadcaster Channel 4, replaced Box TV’s music channel Q on the Sky and Virgin Media platforms. Heat also owns a self-titled digital radio station.