Tired of paying for yet another streaming subscription just to find something new to watch? Well, here’s some exciting news: TLC, the popular channel once exclusive to paid services like Sky TV and Virgin Media, is now available for free on Freeview and Freesat. Yes, you read that right—no more subscription fees! But here’s where it gets even more interesting: Warner Bros. Discovery, the media giant behind TLC, has completely revamped the channel’s lineup, and it’s not just about reality TV anymore.
Gone are the days when TLC was synonymous with 24/7 reality shows. While fan favorites like 90 Day Fiancé and Dr Pimple Popper are still on the schedule, the channel is now home to beloved U.S. sitcoms like The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, and the brand-new spin-off Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage. It’s a bold shift that’s sure to spark debate among viewers—are you team reality or team sitcom? Let us know in the comments!
And this is the part most people miss: the biggest surprise in TLC’s new lineup is the revival of Mock The Week. After its 21-year run on BBC Two ended in 2022, the iconic panel show is back with a fresh look, hosted once again by Dara Ó Briain. Familiar faces like Sara Pascoe, Hugh Dennis, and Katherine Ryan will join newer talents like Ahir Shah and Sarah Keyworth, bringing back classic segments like “If this is the answer, what is the question?” and “Scenes we’d like to see.” It’s a nostalgic yet modern twist that’s bound to divide opinions—is this a welcome return or a risky reboot?
But wait, there’s more! TLC is also introducing Zero Stars, a travel series featuring comedians Roisin Conaty and Sara Pascoe exploring destinations with the worst reviews. It’s a quirky concept based on a Danish format that’s sure to entertain.
To start watching, tune into Channel 12 on Freeview or Channel 144 on Freesat. Missed an episode? Catch up on TLC +1 at Channel 99 on Freeview or Channel 150 on Freesat. However, this shakeup has caused a ripple effect: Quest has moved from Channel 12 to Channel 17 on Freeview, and Really has shifted from Channel 17 to Channel 44, taking over the slot previously held by HGTV. Speaking of HGTV, the home improvement channel has closed after nearly six years, with its shows like Celebrity IOU and My Lottery Dream Home now airing on Really.
Here’s a pro tip for Freeview users: To ensure you see all these changes, you’ll likely need to retune your device. While some Freeview devices update automatically, others require a manual retune. Here’s how:
1. Press the Menu button on your remote.
2. Navigate to Set-Up > Installation > Update (wording may vary by brand).
3. If prompted, enter the default password: 1234 or 0000.
4. Select Full Retune (sometimes labeled as First-Time Installation or Factory Reset).
5. Confirm by pressing OK. Your device may ask if you’re okay with deleting existing channels—don’t worry, this is normal to make way for the updated lineup.
With 16 million UK households already using Freeview, this TLC overhaul is a game-changer for free TV. But here’s the controversial question: Is this shift toward sitcoms and reboots a smart move, or is TLC losing its identity? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take!
