Virgin Media has confirmed its next programming season will include a vertical drama built specifically for smartphone viewing, alongside a new reality competition that follows a format similar to the BBC’s The Traitors, according to The Journal.
The announcement, reported by The Journal on Tuesday, 18 August 2026, did not specify a launch date, cast, or title for either project. The vertical drama is designed to be watched in portrait mode, a format that has gained traction on social video platforms but remains rare in premium scripted television. The second show is described as a “Traitors-esque” format, implying a game of deception and deduction among contestants, though no further details on rules or production were provided.
The Journal’s report offers no additional context on how Virgin Media plans to distribute these titles, whether through its existing TV platform or a separate app. It also does not name any production partners or creative leads attached to the projects.
This season marks a notable shift for Virgin Media, which has typically relied on acquired content and sports rights rather than original commissions. The move toward mobile-first drama and a social-deduction reality format suggests the broadcaster is testing new viewing habits and genre trends.
What to watch next: expect more details on casting and release dates as Virgin Media rolls out its full season slate in the coming weeks.
