The BBC is shutting down a major TV channel next year after 24 years.
BBC Three will shut down as a traditional broadcast channel in spring 2027.
The closure is part of wider cost-saving measures announced by the BBC.
The move comes as the broadcaster faces sustained financial pressures and aims to save £500 million by 2028.
BBC Three channel to shut down in 2027 after 24 years
Matt Brittin, director-general of the BBC, said: "We need to make every pound work harder for audiences as we respond to the immediate cost pressures and reinvent the BBC for a changing world.
"We all know that means tough choices."
BBC Three, which first launched on February 9, 2003, targets viewers aged 16 to 34.
It is known for its diverse programming, including comedy, drama, documentaries, and content focused on LGBTQ+ audiences.
Some of its iconic shows over the years have included the likes of Gavin & Stacey, before it was moved to other BBC channels after becoming a hit series, and Being Human.
American programming also features, with American Dad! and Family Guy being notable examples.
The channel will continue to commission new content, but programmes will be available exclusively online through BBC iPlayer and other platforms such as YouTube.
This is not the first time BBC Three has left the airwaves.
It previously ceased linear broadcasting in February 2016, only to return in February 2022 after a period as an online-only offering.
Mr Brittin added: "Much of the great content they currently carry will still be found where audiences already enjoy it on iPlayer and Sounds.
"While this follows media speculation, I recognise the confirmation of this news will be hard for audiences and colleagues."
BBC iPlayer, the broadcaster’s online streaming service, launched in December 2007 and has carried BBC Three content since its inception.
Following its 2016 closure, BBC Three content remained available online before its return to linear broadcasting in 2022.
The channel currently airs from 7pm to 4am, sharing bandwidth with CBBC during daytime hours.
What other BBC channels are shutting down?
BBC Scotland and Radio 4 Extra are also ending as linear services.
Content will continue to be available on BBC iPlayer as well as BBC One and BBC Two in Scotland.
Programmes from Radio 4 Extra will transition to BBC Sounds.
Further changes have been announced in BBC News, with director Rachel Jupp expected to outline additional savings plans early next year as part of a long-term vision for the division.
Other departments are expected to confirm their own savings measures in the coming months.
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The latest round of cuts follows earlier reductions across BBC Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and in local, news, speech, and Sounds.
The BBC said the closures reflect how audiences are increasingly consuming content digitally and are part of its strategy to adapt to changing viewing habits.
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