A new identity with an implemented change
Paramount announced 5Drama for 21 October 2026 as a dedicated home for drama, replacing 5Select. Freeview’s dated 21 October update records the name change and channel move. These two sources distinguish the advance announcement from a platform’s implementation notice. An old 5Select name in a saved list does not describe a separate new drama service alongside 5Drama.
Drama series still need episode identifiers
The launch announcement describes a mix of UK drama and US and Australian series. It also announces early Home and Away episodes after launch. That makes episode detail essential: a familiar soap title can refer to a very different era from the current story. Keep the series, episode and synopsis with the title so you can recognise what the channel is actually scheduling.
Do not generalise a number across platforms
Paramount gives separate launch positions for different television services, while Freeview publishes its own change table. Use the number and guide for the receiving platform in front of you. A Sky photograph is not a Freeview retuning instruction. A favourite saved before the change may also need checking after the service has updated its programme guide.
Locate the programme you intended
If you want the next part of a particular drama, compare the current 5Drama slot with that programme’s episode information. A broader streaming catalogue and the linear channel’s schedule are separate selections. Follow the broadcaster’s current viewing instructions for the item you choose. This guide records a channel transition and programme-identification method; it does not establish third-party carriage, a UKIPTV line-up or rights to the dramas.
Questions, answered
Is 5Select an additional new channel alongside 5Drama?
The publisher announced 5Drama as the replacement for 5Select.
Should I use the same channel number on every platform?
No. Check the current list for your receiving service.