The broadcasting group ProSiebenSat.1 intends to launch a new free-to-air linear channel, planning for its debut in 2027 through Sat.2, according to the Süddeutsche Zeitung.
Henrik Pabst, ProSiebenSat.1’s Chief Content Officer for Programming, confirmed the expansion, adding to the existing Sat.1 family. He stated that the new channel will specifically target viewers between the ages of 45 and 65. According to Pabst, there is significant demand for major fictional series that are well-known from previous decades. The programming slate for Sat.2 will include popular titles like “Der Bulle von Tölz,” “Kommissar Rex,” and classic daily soaps such as “Verliebt in Berlin.” The advertising industry has since provided positive feedback on the plan.
The move comes as a surprise, given the general trend of declining interest in linear TV and the increasing appeal of streaming services. However, Pabst argued that the group’s current target-group channels are successful and continuing to gain market share. He emphasized that Sat.2 is merely part of a broader strategic setup. Within the group, every piece of content will be assigned appropriate distribution and an individual monetization concept. Despite the shift toward digital platforms, the existing channels remain critical as “quality anchors with millions of viewers.” Pabst remains confident in the long-term viability of free-to-air television, while ensuring that programming will be distributed across all available platforms.
This expansion is distinct from the recent acquisition of a majority stake in ProSiebenSat.1 by the Italian media group Media for Europe (MFE) last autumn. Pabst clarified that the idea for Sat.2 predates this ownership change. While there are areas of business-such as streaming technology and IT-where collaboration with MFE is beneficial, the crucial programming decisions will be made within Germany, which he believes is the only way to achieve the best results.
