Chilevisión

Chilevisión, frequently abbreviated as CHV, operates as a free-to-air television network based in Santiago. It holds the distinction of being the third oldest continuously operating television channel in Chile, having begun transmissions on November 4, 1960. The station was originally established by the University of Chile to serve educational and public service goals before evolving into a major commercial broadcaster. Its programming slate includes local news, international series, sports coverage, and entertainment content distributed via over-the-air signals and cable partners.

The network's corporate history mirrors broader shifts in the Latin American media landscape. After decades under university ownership, it was acquired by Time Warner in the late 20th century. Ownership later transferred to Paramount Global, which managed the channel through various market changes. In January 2026, the Vytal Group completed its acquisition of the station from Paramount Skydance, marking a new chapter for the broadcaster. This transition also saw the departure of long-time executive director Iñaki Vicente.

Today, Chilevisión functions as a significant information hub for the country. Its flagship news division, Canal CHV Noticias, produces daily broadcasts including CHV Noticias Central. The network has invested heavily in modern production capabilities, recently partnering with technology providers to deliver high-definition 4K feeds for major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup. This technical upgrade underscores its commitment to maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing digital environment while retaining its historical roots. [edit]

Chilevisión aims to provide diverse content ranging from investigative journalism to entertainment dramas and live sports. Under the Vytal Group, the organization prioritizes national connectivity by delivering reliable news updates through its dedicated news department. The network seeks to balance local productions with international acquisitions to serve households across the entire country. [edit]

The University of Chile founded Chilevisión to function as an academic and public service broadcaster. Transmissions began on November 4, 1960, utilizing frequency 9. For many years, the station operated strictly under university control as part of its educational mandate. The channel remained a staple of Chilean culture until ownership changed hands in the late 20th century when Time Warner purchased the network. This acquisition integrated the station into a global media portfolio and shifted its focus toward more commercial programming.

Ownership eventually transferred to ViacomCBS, now known as Paramount Global. During this period, the network expanded its news operations and maintained its status as a key player in the Chilean market. A significant shift occurred in November 2025 when Paramount Skydance announced plans to sell the channel. The deal closed in January 2026 with the Vytal Group acquiring full operational control. This transaction coincided with the exit of executive director Iñaki Vicente.

Following the acquisition, the Vytal Group moved quickly to expand its regional influence. In March 2026, the group purchased Peru’s Latina TV, further consolidating its presence in South American broadcasting. The new leadership focused on upgrading technical infrastructure, including the adoption of 4K streaming standards for major sports events. These moves signaled a strategic pivot toward high-quality production and modern distribution methods. [edit]