When do programmes become available on BBC iPlayer?

This depends on whether the programme was pre-recorded or live. 

  • It was pre-recorded
    Usually pre-recorded programmes (like a dramas, soaps or documentaries) are available just after the broadcast ends, but sometimes it can take a while to process.
     
  • It was broadcast live
    Live, or close-to-live, programmes (like sports coverage or shows like Have I Got News for You) take longer than pre-recorded programmes to be available as they cannot be processed until after the broadcast has ended.

With Live Restart there is no need to wait

If a programme has finished but isn't yet available on demand, you may be able to use Live Restart to rewind live channel on BBC iPlayer to watch it. For more on this, check the How do I use Live Restart? page.

‘Check back later today’ message

On some TV devices, there may be a longer time between the live broadcast finishing and it being available on-demand. If you are seeing a message on your TV advising to 'Check back later today,' have a look here for more info: Why am I seeing a 'Check back later today' screen ?

‘This programme is not currently available on BBC iPlayer’ message

If a message is displayed advising ‘This programme is not currently available on BBC iPlayer,’ this likely means we don’t have the distribution rights to make it available on iPlayer. Check the Are all programmes that are broadcast available on BBC iPlayer? page for more information.

‘Available Soon’ message

If a programme is listed as 'available soon' and is still not available after a full day, Contact Us to let us know.