Sky has begun 2026 with a wide-ranging update to its satellite TV platform, bringing channel closures, number changes and guide reshuffles across entertainment, factual, movies and sports. It’s one of the most noticeable Sky EPG updates in recent years and affects both long-standing viewers and casual users alike.

These changes will be rolled out this coming week, with updates arriving automatically via the satellite signal. Some viewers will notice channels missing, while others will find familiar channels sitting in new positions.

Channel Closures and Removals

Several MTV Music channels permanently ceased broadcasting at the end of 2025 and have now been removed from the Sky TV guide:

• MTV Music (was channel 350)

• Club MTV (was channel 351)

• MTV 90s (was channel 352)

These closures mark the continued decline of traditional linear music television, as audiences increasingly move toward streaming and on-demand music platforms.

Sky Satellite Channel Number Changes (January 2026)

A significant part of the update is a reorganisation of channel numbers, particularly within the entertainment and documentary sections. Below is a clear list of the main Sky satellite channel moves:

In addition, Racing TV is now broadcast exclusively in HD on satellite, with the SD version removed.

TLC Channel Changes

TLC has also undergone a notable change as part of Sky’s January 2026 update. The channel has been rebranded and repositioned as a free-to-air service, meaning it is no longer part of Sky’s paid subscription packages. As a result, TLC is now available to all Sky satellite viewers without requiring an Entertainment subscription, and will also be available on Freesat set top boxes, bringing its lifestyle and reality programming to a wider audience.

The “new-look TLC” is set to blend a strong mixture of scripted and unscripted programming: big scripted shows such as The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, its upcoming spin-off Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, and Mike & Molly are all lined up.

Sky Stream and Sky Glass

Although this update mainly targets satellite viewers, Sky Stream and Sky Glass customers are seeing related changes. Some channels have shifted position to align more closely with the satellite guide, while others — such as HGTV — have been removed entirely.

This continues Sky’s wider move toward a simplified channel line-up with greater emphasis on on-demand content.

What Viewers Should Do

Channel changes on the Eky EPG should be automatic, but if channels appear missing or out of place a reboot of your Sky digibox will refresh the EPG.

Some regional differences (UK vs Republic of Ireland) may still apply.

Once the dust settles, the updated guide should feel cleaner and more logically grouped — even if a few long-memorised channel numbers are now a thing of the past.