Channel 4 has witnessed a significant surge in its YouTube views in 2024, marking a threefold increase.
- Hollyoaks, along with other popular shows, has been a key driver of this digital growth.
- The network’s documentaries, notably 24 Hours in Police Custody, are drawing record audiences.
- Channel 4’s strategic shift to a digital-first schedule for certain programs is proving fruitful.
- Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are contributing to Channel 4’s burgeoning online presence.
In 2024, Channel 4 has experienced a remarkable tripling of its YouTube viewership for full episodes within the UK. This growth, registering a staggering 309% increase year-on-year, is largely attributed to the popularity of series such as Hollyoaks, UNTOLD, and Murder Case: In The Footsteps Of Killers. This strategic move positions Channel 4 at the forefront of reaching digital audiences while solidifying its reputation as one of the fastest-growing streaming platforms this year.
The network’s social content has amassed an impressive 1.8 billion views across various platforms, heavily bolstered by the tripling of UK views for its full episode programming on YouTube. A pivotal part of this success is Channel 4’s documentaries, specifically 24 Hours in Police Custody, which have become significant draws for record-breaking YouTube audiences.
The transition to a digital-first schedule, especially for Hollyoaks, where episodes are simultaneously available on YouTube, streaming services, and traditional linear formats, has proven highly advantageous. This year alone, Hollyoaks has recorded 3.5 million global views of its full-length episodes on YouTube, underscoring the effectiveness of such digital strategies.
Beyond YouTube, Channel 4 has seen substantial growth across other social media platforms. Notably, their coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games gleaned 41 million views across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, with 2.4 million streams of live content. Channel 4.0’s focus on engaging formats like Tapped Out and King Konan’s Trap Door has resulted in more than doubled UK views, reaching 120 million when considering all social channels combined.
TikTok has emerged as Channel 4’s fastest-growing platform, witnessing an 86% increase in UK views over the past year, totaling 480 million. The collaboration between Channel 4’s digital arm, 4Studio, and TikTok to enhance the Paralympic Games digital experience is a testament to their innovative approach to content distribution. Instagram content has also thrived, with UK views climbing by 39% and showcasing popular shows such as Hollyoaks and Made In Chelsea.
Channel 4’s strategic digital initiatives are clearly resonating, securing its leadership in the streaming market.
