Why am I unable to find the programme I want to watch or listen to on BBC iPlayer?

We offer a wide range of programmes from most BBC television channels and radio stations on BBC iPlayer and we intend to make programmes available as soon as possible after broadcast, which can mean a wait of up to two hours. Live programmes take longer as we can't start encoding until the programme is over, and it can take up to three times the programme length before it appears.

To offer programmes through BBC iPlayer, the BBC has to acquire the relevant rights from the people who make and appear in them. Some types of programmes such as films, musical performances, foreign produced programmes and sporting events (including football matches) won't be available on BBC iPlayer.

In addition, television rights and UK radio rights may vary. The schedules let you know which programmes will be coming up.

We sometimes have to alter our TV and radio schedules to react to a big news story or an unpredictable change to live coverage, which means that sometimes programmes will not be broadcast, and as a result, these programmes will not be available on BBC iPlayer. This only happens occasionally and we are sorry for the inconvenience it causes.

If you are searching for a specific programme, visit the BBC iPlayer homepage and use the search facility there to find the programme you want.  It may be that the programme has been delayed, or you can try entering a different search word or browsing the categories. You can also visit  the BBC iPlayer messageboard if you wish to discuss the availability of a programme.

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For further help you can Contact Us, or you can discuss this issue at the BBC iPlayer messageboard.