Discovery launches second UK FTA net

Discovery Communications is expanding its free-to-air channel portfolio in the UK with the launch of Quest Red next month.

Clare Laycock

The reality channel will debut on March 15 and follows the launch of Quest, the company’s first FTA offering in the territory, which launched in 2009.

The female-skewing channel will be available on Freeview, YouView, BT TV, Talk Talk, Sky and Virgin Media.

Its roll-out follows the recent resolution to an acrimonious carriage dispute between Discovery and the UK’s leading pay TV operator, Sky.

Shows including Is OJ Innocent? The Missing Evidence, from executive producer Martin Sheen; Jo Frost: Nanny on Tour; and Long Lost Family US will form part of the channel’s launch slate.

Clare Laycock, VP and head of channels for Discovery Networks UK and Ireland, said: “With a vibrant fusion of fascinating stories, captivating lifestyles and compelling crime, we’re really excited to launch a new real-life entertainment channel tailor-made for audiences who love great TV.”