Ian Katz, who has held the role of chief content officer at Channel 4 for nearly nine years, is set to step down in October.
Throughout his time at Channel 4, Katz significantly contributed to the channel’s shift from a traditional linear network to a modern streaming service. Under his leadership, the portion of streaming in Channel 4 viewing rose from 20% to 50%. He also curated a celebrated range of programming, introducing popular shows such as “Taskmaster” to the network, along with enduring favorites like “Gogglebox” and “The Great British Bake Off,” and recent successes like “Virgin Island,” “Dirty Business,” and “A Woman of Substance.”
Katz’s tenure at Channel 4 also featured notable works including Russell T Davies’ critically acclaimed drama “It’s a Sin,” James Graham’s “Brexit: The Uncivil War,” Jack Thorne’s COVID-themed drama “Help,” and hit comedies “Big Boys,” “We Are Lady Parts,” and “Mitchell & Webb Are Not Helping.” Additionally, the upcoming drama lineup, guided by Katz, features Davies’ newest series “Tip Toe,” starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey.
In a statement, Channel 4 CEO Priya Dogra praised Katz: “Ian has been an outstanding creative leader for Channel 4 over nearly nine years — the channel’s longest-serving head of programming. He has overseen an era of creative renewal, delivering bold and distinctive public service programming with intellectual rigor, good humor, and an unmistakably Channel 4 glint in the eye. He will be greatly missed, but I’m delighted that he will remain with us for some months yet, continuing to lead our creative output, commissioning decisions, and delivery of the 2026 slate.”
Katz reflected on his tenure, stating, “It’s been a privilege beyond words to lead Channel 4’s talented and passionate commissioning team through such a transformative period. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, from pioneering the evolution of a commercial public service broadcaster into a digital streaming business, to backing groundbreaking programs and talent that have brought a bit of joy to audience’s lives. Above all, I’m proud that Channel 4 has continued to be as disruptive and impertinent as ever, asking the questions and covering the stories that other broadcasters and streamers won’t. The channel’s 2026 slate is stronger than ever, and I look forward to watching its continued success under Priya’s leadership.”
