Virgin TV Expands Entertainment Offering with Two New FAST Channels at No Extra Cost

Virgin Media O2 has launched two new free, ad-supported streaming channels on Virgin TV, adding comedy and quiz programming to its platform effective immediately. The channels—8 Out of 10 Cats on channel 250 and Pointless on channel 251—are available at no additional cost to Virgin TV 360 and Stream customers. The expansion marks the latest development in Virgin TV's growing FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) strategy.

Channel Details and Access

Both channels deliver 24-hour programming loops, allowing viewers continuous access to entertainment throughout the day and night. 8 Out of 10 Cats provides comedy content, while Pointless focuses on quiz show format programming. The channels are operated by Banijay Rights and integrate into Virgin TV's electronic programme guide, making them discoverable through the standard channel navigation system.

These additions expand Virgin TV's streaming channel library from 37 to 39 total channels. Existing offerings in the platform's FAST catalogue include U&Transport, British Screen Classics, and Inside Crime, demonstrating Virgin Media O2's commitment to diverse content categories. Customers access these channels through the same interface as traditional linear television.

Broader Market Context

The FAST channel model has become one of the fastest-growing segments in British television. Competitors including Samsung TV Plus, The Roku Channel, and Tubi offer similar ad-supported programming at no cost to viewers. Roku recently expanded its FAST offering with 22 new channels, while Virgin Media itself introduced three additional channels earlier in the year. This competitive landscape reflects shifting consumer preferences toward free or lower-cost streaming options alongside paid subscription services.

David Bouchier, Chief TV and Entertainment Officer at Virgin Media O2, stated that the new channels give customers "even more of the best entertainment from Virgin TV, at zero extra cost." The channels complement Virgin TV's broader entertainment bundle, which includes over 200 channels and Netflix access for qualifying customers.