In 1984, the idea was hatched of challenging the public service broadcasters in Sweden with a quality commercial channel. This was realised in 1990 with the premiere of TV4. The following day, the headlines screamed: ”Pull the plug on TV4 – if the premiere’s anything to go by!”

Today, less than 20 years on, its success is indisputable. TV4 has delivered successful programming, which has won 30% of the viewing public.

One excellent exampel being the DIY programme Äntligen hemma (Home sweet home), which has been running since 1997 with the same host, Martin Timell. A majority of Swedish viewers prepare for the day ahead in front of Nyhetsmorgon (the morningshow with live news), which has been a regular feature of TV4’s schedule since 1992. The Inspector Wallander drama series has consistently high viewing figures, and new seasons are produced continually.

The TV4 Group was also one of the first broadcasters to make domestic versions of major international formats such as Who wants to be a millionaire and (Pop) Idol , which are still being broadcast. The most successful imported serie is House.

By far the most popular programmes are the live broadcasts from major sporting events.