ITV Shuts Iconic Channel After 42 Years in Major Overhaul
ITV will close the long-running children’s brand CITV in a decision that has upset many viewers. The channel’s final scheduled broadcast on ITV2 is 10 April 2026.
What is happening
The company says the move forms part of a major overhaul of its services. ITV is set to shut the iconic channel after 42 years of broadcasting.
CITV had already stopped full-time transmission in 2023. A programming block continued on ITV2 while footage moved to the ITVX platform.
History and timeline
The strand began as Watch IT before rebranding to Children’s ITV, commonly known as CITV. It originally aired during late afternoons for returning schoolchildren.
In 2006 the brand launched as a separate 24-hour free-to-air channel. The standalone channel ceased broadcasting in 2023 and continued digitally on ITVX.
Shows and talent the channel launched
CITV helped launch several presenters’ careers. Notable names include Stephen Mulhern, Holly Willoughby, Cat Deeley, and Michael Underwood.
- Art Attack, hosted by Neil Buchanan
- Tots TV
- Horrid Henry
- Wizadora
- Press Gang, created by Steven Moffat
- It’s a Mystery
- My Parents Are Aliens
Press Gang starred Julia Sawalha and Dexter Fletcher. My Parents Are Aliens featured Tony Gardner and Carla Mendonça.
Creative contributors
Steven Moffat, later known for Doctor Who, wrote Press Gang. Neil Buchanan fronted several popular segments.
Reaction and next steps
Social media users described the closure as the end of an era. Many expressed nostalgia for childhood favourites.
Some viewers criticised the brand for reducing original commissions in recent years. Critics said the channel lacked a proper farewell.
Filmogaz.com contacted ITV for comment. The broadcaster indicated some programmes will transfer to CBBC.
Remaining archive titles are slated to sit under ITVX Kids. The ITV2 block will end with the April broadcast.
