Television industry in Russia, taking its roots from the Soviet Union where it was started in 1931, underwent major restructuring in the 1990s. Numerous public and private channels emerged, and digital TV was embraced by households in 2000s. Today,
worldwide, with its spending measured at 2.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2021. Consumption of television in its traditional form varies between generations, with a significantly
aged from 12 to 24 years who prefer online services and social media for news and entertainment. Broadcasters engage with the internet-savvy audience by offering additional content on their apps or online video platforms.
What are the most popular TV channels in Russia?
The state-owned channel Russia 1 and co-owned Channel One are the most watched in the country. Moreover, they have the
most trusted news programs. Throughout the day, their regular programming includes morning shows, panel discussions about politics, societal problems, and health, melodramas and crime series, as well as talk and entertainment shows. On weekends and public holidays, Russian TV channels tend to broadcast live and recorded concerts. Among multiplex entertainment channels, CTC and TNT are known for comedy series and entertainment shows. Karusel and Disney Channel are popular TV channels for children.
Russian TV during the war in Ukraine
After Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the European Union (EU) banned state-sponsored channels
RT, Sputnik, RTR Planeta, Russia 24, and TV Centre International, on its territory. Several Western countries also stopped broadcasting some other channels, such as NTV and
Channel One. Furthermore, Russian media left the European Broadcasting Union (EU). Within Russia, Channel One and Russia 1 changed their schedules to prioritize socio-political shows over entertainment programs, though Channel One announced in September 2022 that it would broadcasting entertainment shows again on weekends. The Russian TV advertising industry has experienced drastic changes since the war in Ukraine, as major foreign brands suspended their operations in Russia. In June 2022, there were
31 percent less advertisers on Russian TV that one year prior.
Digitalization of television in Russia
Russia completed its national digital television transition program in 2019, raising the minimum reach of the technology to 98.4 percent. In general, Russian TV viewers get free access to two multiplex packages with 20 channels as well as regional channels. Other programs can be purchased from cable, satellite, and IPTV providers. Over the past decade, the
penetration rate of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) continuously increased, and in 2025, it was forecast to reach 22 percent. Furthermore, more and more Russian households subscribed to pay TV services.
Russia was the fourth-leading country by premium TV subscribers worldwide, estimated at over 42 million in 2021.
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