New unscripted shows commissioned for its digital platforms

Channel 4 is to launch a dedicated digital channel for original unscripted British comedy.  

Hosted on YouTube, A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 will launch later this month  with weekly long-form programmes running around  20 to 30 minutes. Cut-down clips will then be posted to TikTok and Instagram.

The launch follows the debut of a food-focussed channel, Channel 4 Served, earlier this year, which the broadcaster says has been a success, although it boasts fewer than 300 followers on YouTube and almost 19,000 on TikTok.

Strong Watch Studios, who are backed by Have I Got News For You makers Hat Trick Productions, has been commissioned to launch the channel and produce the first wave of new formats and additional social content. 

Each of the yet to be announced shows will be fronted by an ‘ensemble cast of hotly-tipped British comics’, Channel 4 says. The cast will appear in each show, across a range of comedy genres, from podcasts and crowdwork to quick-fire gags and panel shows.

Sacha Khari, pictured, the head of digital commissioning at Channel 4, said: 'Channel 4 has a long history of shaping British comedy, and with A Comedy Thing by Channel 4, we’re bringing that legacy into pixels. 

‘It’s built for a community who get their laughs online first but still love the buzz of a live gig. Whether you're discovering your next favourite comic on YouTube or catching them on stage later, this channel delivers straight to your feed.

‘We’re teaming up with Strong Watch Studios and a brilliant line-up of sharp, stand-out comics to create original formats, perfectly suited to digitally savvy audiences who just want to be entertained whilst playing along. The kind of content you’ll send to the group chat, stick on the big screen, or show up for in real life when you’re ready to lock in for a laugh.

‘Our digital shows are already building loyal fanbases and getting real recognition and A Comedy Thing by Channel 4 is the next step. A proper home for the next wave of British comedy, made for the way modern audiences are choosing to watch. The next few months are going to be big and very funny.’

The executive producers of the new content for Strong Watch Studios are Thom Gulseven and Ben Powell-Jones. 

Published: 10 Jul 2025