Paramount UK network 5, formerly Channel 5, will launch 5Drama on 21 October, replacing 5Select with a dedicated linear drama channel. It will feature British originals, American imports and Australian series, reflecting 5’s continued investment in traditional television despite wider industry concerns about declining linear viewing.

The schedule will include All Creatures Great and Small, Waterloo Road, Gilmore Girls, Columbo, A Million Little Things and Home and Away, which will begin from its first episode. British dramas will occupy peak evening slots, while US programmes and Home and Away will air during weekday afternoons; the launch also comes amid uncertainty over Paramount’s proposed $110bn deal with Warner, although 5 UK currently appears protected.