BBC Three starts migration to iPlayer as it premieres comedy series online
BBC Three is set to air the entire new series of Australian comedy 'Jonah From Tonga' on BBC iPlayer ahead of its terrestrial transmission, shortly after announcing the channel will become online only.
Although the plans to move the channel online are still subject to Trust approval, premièring the new series of Jonah on iPlayer is a signal of how the BBC may intend to air content in the future.
This is the first time the channel has chosen to show programming on iPlayer first and it also forms part of an international simulcast with ABC Australia’s internet TV service iview.
Victoria Jaye, head of TV content, BBC iPlayer, said: “This is BBC iPlayer’s first collaboration with an international broadcaster to create an online TV event. For 48 hours only, iPlayer audiences will be given access to all episodes of Chris Lilley’s new comedy series ‘Jonah From Tonga’. We’re excited to see how this digital event sets light to social media activity from fans both here and on the other side of the world.”
Jonah From Tonga will be available on BBC iPlayer from 2 May for 48 hours before airing on BBC Three from 8 May.
Yesterday, BBC Three controller Zai Bennett announced he is set leave his role to become director of Sky Atlantic, just days after BBC announced a new controller for BBC Two and Four.