Channel 4 is in talks with the BBC’s commercial division BBC Worldwide over a major tie-up, the FT reports.
The future of state-owned broadcaster Channel 4 is in doubt as TV goes digital, and the benefits of having a terrestrial broadcasting licence evaporate.
The FT reports today that Worldwide (which includes the BBC’s massive mags division) is in talks to rescue C4 with up to £500m of investment.
Under the plan, the FT reports, parts of BBC Worldwide would be split off, rebranded and combined with Channel 4.
It is a plan which would have the benefit of providing BBC Worldwide with a raison d’etre as it increasingly comes under fire from commercial media for what they see as unfair competition.
And in the increasingly fragmented media future – joint ventures could be the pathway to survival for many.
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog