1+1 (TV channel)

1+1 (TV channel)
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Name	1+1
Country	Ukraine
Picture format	1080i HDTV
Owner	1+1 Media
Founded	15 September 1995
Language	Ukrainian
Headquarters	Kyiv, Ukraine
Former names	UT-2 (1995–1996)
Website	https://www.1plus1.ua/

1+1 (TV channel) is a major Ukrainian commercial television channel, launched on 15 September 1995. Owned by 1+1 Media, it is one of the most-watched television networks in Ukraine, known for its mix of news, entertainment, and original productions. The channel has played a significant role in shaping the country's media landscape and has been influential in both political discourse and popular culture.

History

The channel began broadcasting as UT-2, part of the state-owned National Television Company of Ukraine, before being privatized and rebranded as 1+1 in 1996. Its early success was bolstered by popular programming like the comedy show SV-show. A pivotal moment came in 2000 when the channel's ownership was acquired by Central European Media Enterprises, a move that brought significant foreign investment. Following a series of corporate transactions, control was later consolidated under 1+1 Media, a holding company ultimately owned by Ukrainian businessman Ihor Kolomoisky. Throughout the Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity, 1+1 provided extensive news coverage, cementing its role as a key national broadcaster.

Programming

1+1's schedule features a diverse array of content, including flagship news programs like TSN (Television News Service), which is one of Ukraine's most trusted news sources. The channel is a leader in entertainment, producing popular reality formats such as Holos Krainy (the Ukrainian adaptation of The Voice) and X-Factor. It also broadcasts major Ukrainian Premier League football matches and a wide range of domestically produced television series and talk shows. The channel has co-produced several notable films and series with international partners, including collaborations with Netflix.

Ownership and management

The channel is the flagship property of 1+1 Media, one of Ukraine's largest media groups. The ultimate beneficial owner of 1+1 Media is Ihor Kolomoisky, a prominent figure in Ukrainian business and politics. Key executives have included Oleksandr Tkachenko, who served as General Director before becoming Minister of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine. The ownership structure has been subject to scrutiny, particularly regarding the influence of Kolomoisky, whose business interests have intersected with Ukrainian politics and whose assets were frozen by the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine in 2021.

Availability and distribution

1+1 broadcasts nationwide via an extensive network of terrestrial transmitters, covering over 95% of Ukraine's territory. It is also widely available on all major Ukrainian cable and satellite platforms, including Volia, Triolan, and Kyivstar TV. The channel has a strong digital presence, offering live streaming and on-demand content through its official website and mobile application. Internationally, 1+1 is accessible via satellite and online services catering to the Ukrainian diaspora, particularly in countries like Canada, the United States, and Poland.

Audience and ratings

Consistently ranking among the top three television channels in Ukraine, 1+1 commands a significant share of the national viewing audience. Its prime-time entertainment shows and the TSN newscast regularly achieve high ratings, as measured by organizations like the Ukrainian Association of Market and Opinion Researchers. The channel is particularly popular with viewers aged 18-54 and maintains a strong position in urban centers such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa. Its digital platforms also engage millions of users monthly, extending its influence beyond traditional broadcast.

Controversies and criticism

The channel has faced numerous controversies, primarily related to its ownership ties to Ihor Kolomoisky and perceived editorial bias. Critics, including media watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders, have accused 1+1 of promoting narratives favorable to Kolomoisky's business and political interests. It has been involved in high-profile legal disputes, such as the case concerning the ownership of Ukraine International Airlines. During the 2019 Ukrainian presidential election, its coverage was criticized by rivals of candidate Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had previously starred in popular shows on the channel like Servant of the People.

Category:Television channels in Ukraine Category:1995 establishments in Ukraine