Channel 4 and ITN renews contract

Channel 4 today confirmed that it has renewed its contract with ITN to supply Channel 4 News until December 2026.

ITN has held the contract for 40 years with the Channel 4 News programme one of only two programmes that have been on air continuously since Channel 4 started broadcasting in 1982.

“It’s fantastic that Channel 4 has recognised the strength and dedication of the whole team delivering Channel 4 News night after night on TV as well as across digital platforms in what has been a tremendously busy, unrelenting news cycle,” said Esme Wren, Channel 4 News editor.

“From the war in Ukraine to the turmoil of UK politics and the cost-of-living crisis including numerous strikes, we aim to provide a comprehensive and alternative viewpoint reflecting voices across the nation.”

Scoops last year included an interview with former deputy chief whip Anne Milton concerning allegations about Sir Gavin Williamson’s behaviour, which was immediately followed by Williamson’s resignation from government.

Channel 4 News is also seeing record numbers across all digital platforms. Last year was Channel 4 News’ biggest year ever on digital in terms of viewership, with over 2 billion ‘minutes-viewed’ across platforms. Journalism in and about Ukraine dominated and it caused saw huge growth on YouTube where Channel 4 News now have 2.5 million followers.

Rachel Corp, ITN CEO added: “This is a huge vote of confidence in the Channel 4 News team who continue to produce outstanding journalism across a range of platforms.

“Whether it’s ground-breaking investigations, eye-witness journalism – including the exceptional BATFA-nominated coverage from the frontline in Ukraine – or the run of recent, headline-grabbing exclusives, this is an unstoppable newsroom delivering for domestic and global audiences.

“With a core team of established presenters and correspondents alongside exciting new hires and a focus on digital and data, the team are going from strength to strength under Esme’s leadership.”