Virgin TV introduces two new FAST channels

Dan Howdle • June 24th, 2025

Virgin Media O2 has recently enhanced its TV service by adding two new FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) channels, providing customers with additional content at no extra cost. These new channels are designed for straightforward discovery, appearing directly within Virgin Media’s TV guide and accessible through voice control functionalities. The integration of this entertainment upgrade is automatic for Virgin TV 360, Stream, and V6 boxes, eliminating the need for any customer intervention. FAST channels, by their nature, are streaming services that provide a variety of content, typically organised into themed channels, and are supported by advertisements rather than subscription fees.

These new FAST channels are accessible to Virgin TV customers directly via their set-top box, offering 24/7 access to a variety of television content. The expanded channel line-up includes:

British Screen Classics (Ch450)

This channel is dedicated to showcasing film and TV content sourced from the classic film libraries of ITV STUDIOS and STUDIO CANAL. It provides a continuous 24/7 stream of notable British cinematic works. This may include a range of historical dramas, comedies, and classic productions that highlight the heritage of British filmmaking. Viewers can expect to find diverse titles, such as This Sporting Life, Doctor in the House, Heaven's Above!, and Clockwise. The programming spans various genres and themes, including comedy, horror, war, adventure, drama, and romance.

wedotv movies (Ch451)

This channel features a collection of over 500 contemporary movies across multiple genres. Its content focuses on modern cinema, offering a broad selection for diverse viewer preferences. It incorporates daily genre-themed programming blocks, such as 'Romance Mondays' and 'Sci-fi Wednesdays'. Additionally, wedotv movies will offer special seasonal events aligned with key calendar dates, including Halloween and Christmas.

These new additions expand upon the existing selection of 33 FAST channels already available on Virgin TV. This significant number of existing FAST channels further diversifies the overall content offering, providing a wide array of viewing options across different interests and genres. Current examples include Inside Crime, Homes Under The Hammer, and Red Bull TV, among others.

David Bouchier, Chief TV and Entertainment Officer at Virgin Media O2, stated that Virgin TV's objective is to be a central point for entertainment and to offer a broader range of choices to its subscribers. He further noted that the company aims to provide enhanced value through on-demand and channel content at no additional charge, specifically mentioning these two new streaming movie channels. According to Bouchier, customers now have an expanded selection and continuous access to movies without extra cost.

The integration of these new channels into Virgin Media’s TV line-up is managed through the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG). The EPG is an on-screen menu that provides a schedule of current and upcoming television programmes. This initiative is part of Virgin Media’s broader strategy to expand its FAST channel offerings, which are designed to complement traditional linear television viewing options. This means that in addition to the regularly scheduled broadcast channels, customers have access to a growing library of ad-supported streaming content that can be accessed at any time.