BBC Three 2003 – 2008 Branding

BBC Three launched in 2003 as a new digital television channel with a focus on programming aimed at younger audiences. Offering a mix of entertainment, comedy, drama, documentaries, and other content catering to viewers aged 16 to 34. The channel gained popularity for its innovative and edgy content, often exploring topics and formats that were not as common on traditional television channels.

BBC Three Pre-Launch Promotions & Launch – 9th February 2003

BBC Three Continuity 2003 – 2005

BBC Three decided to adopt their own character for the channel – the ‘Blob’. Various Blobs were designed by Stephan Marjoram at Aardman Animations creators of Wallace & Gromit. These included a Mohican Blob, Glasses Bob and Afro Blob who always live in the blue environment with the BBC Three three-dimensional logotype. The actual ‘BBC Three’ logo was designed by Lambie Nairn (the typeface is Helevetica Neue Black Condensed). The ident music used between 2003 and 2005 was ‘Three Is A Magic Number’ by Bob Dorough.

Destination Three – Late Night Continuity

Examples of studio presentation and graphics.

BBC Three Refresh – 2005

In 2005 the BBC Three typographic logo which appeared on idents and promos was changed from white to blue. The channel also adopted a new DOG.

BBC Three Programme Promotions

Examples of programme promotional trailers