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TVB

TVB is the common abbreviation for Television Broadcasts Limited, a Hong Kong commercial television broadcaster that began transmitting on 19 November 1967.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

TVB, short for Television Broadcasts Limited, is a Hong Kong commercial television broadcaster that began transmitting on 19 November 1967. It is best known for its Cantonese-language entertainment programming, dramas, and pageants, and for its long influence on Hong Kong popular culture. The company operates TVB Jade as its main Cantonese channel and TVB Pearl as its main English-language channel.

History

TVB began broadcasting in 1967 and became a major commercial television station in Hong Kong. Over time it expanded from a traditional broadcaster into a media company with broader digital and online activities.

Programming

TVB is known for producing and broadcasting Cantonese-language dramas, variety shows, and entertainment programmes. Its output has had a strong influence on Hong Kong popular culture and on the careers of many performers.

Channels and services

The company operates several free-to-air terrestrial channels in Hong Kong. TVB Jade serves as its main Cantonese channel, while TVB Pearl is its main English-language channel.

Cultural impact

TVB has long been one of the most recognisable broadcasters in the Chinese-speaking world. Its dramas, pageants, and talent pipeline have made it influential beyond Hong Kong.

Key facts

  • TVB is a Hong Kong television network and broadcaster.
  • Its main Cantonese service is TVB Jade, and its main English service is TVB Pearl.
  • The company has been headquartered at TVB City in Tseung Kwan O since 2003.
  • TVB is widely associated with Hong Kong television dramas and entertainment programmes.
  • TVB has played a major role in Hong Kong and wider Chinese-language popular culture.
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Canadian context

TVB is relevant to Canadian readers through the Hong Kong diaspora and broader Chinese-language media consumption in Canada, where its dramas and entertainment programmes have been widely recognised.

Frequently asked questions

What does TVB stand for?
TVB stands for Television Broadcasts Limited.
Where is TVB based?
TVB is based in Hong Kong, with headquarters at TVB City in Tseung Kwan O.
When did TVB start broadcasting?
TVB began broadcasting on 19 November 1967.
What are TVB’s main channels?
Its main channels are TVB Jade, the Cantonese service, and TVB Pearl, the English-language service.
What is TVB best known for?
TVB is best known for its television dramas, entertainment programming, and beauty pageants.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TVB
    Supports: Broad overview, founding date, channels, headquarters, and cultural role
  2. Wikidata — https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1195543
    Supports: Official name, short name, and general identification as a Hong Kong television broadcasting company
  3. Wikiwand — https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/TVB
    Supports: Headquarters, channels, and general description of TVB as a Hong Kong broadcaster