After 42 years of entertaining children, the iconic CITV channel is officially shutting down. The announcement marks the end of a beloved era that began in 1980. CITV, originally launched as “Watch It!” before rebranding, featured many memorable shows that delighted young audiences.
The End of an Era: CITV Shuts Down
CITV will cease broadcasting on April 10, 2023. This conclusion was confirmed by Media Central UK, which stated that the CITV block on ITV2 will disappear entirely. Fans are expressing their sorrow online, reflecting on the shows that brought them joy over the decades.
Memorable Programming and Legacy
Throughout its history, CITV showcased a variety of iconic children’s programs, including:
- My Parents Are Aliens
- Tots TV
- Horrid Henry
- Art Attack
These shows not only entertained but also shaped the careers of many notable presenters, such as Stephen Mulhern and Holly Willoughby. Additionally, shows like My Parents Are Aliens featured early contributions from acclaimed writer Jesse Armstrong, known for his later work on Succession.
Changes and Future of Children’s Programming
The programming for CITV evolved over the years. Initially, it aired in the late afternoons on ITV. However, after a 2006 reduction in airtime, CITV content became limited to weekend mornings and later moved to ITV2. By 2023, the CITV Freeview channel was discontinued, leaving its legacy largely online.
As of now, ITV2 will transition to include new programming, with children’s content airing from 6 AM. Current offerings will feature shows aimed at a broader audience, like Project Bakeover and Backyard Builds, which diverge from the classic children’s shows.
Despite the closure of CITV, some of its programming will be incorporated into CBBC and available on the ITVX Kids hub. However, many fans are concerned about the future of children’s television, citing dwindling options and a lack of investment in quality programming.
Fan Reactions and Industry Concerns
The reaction to CITV’s closure has been overwhelmingly emotional. Social media users are expressing sadness, noting that the closure of CITV is a sign of a larger trend impacting children’s linear television. Many worry that less investment in new shows will lead to a shortage of engaging content for younger audiences.
As CITV bids farewell, its legacy will undoubtedly linger in the memories of countless viewers who grew up enjoying its beloved shows. Fans will hold onto the hope that future generations may still find quality programming tailored for children.
