Direct 8 (France)

Direct 8 (launched: 24 July 2001 (experimental transmissions), 31 March 2005 (official launch) - closed: 7 October 2012) was a national French TV channel, owned by Vincent Bolloré. As the name suggests ('direct' is French for 'live'), Direct 8 was originally intended to broadcast live shows only (except during night times and holiday seasons). Following its purchase by Canal Group, the channel closed down on 7 October 2012 and relaunched as D8 (C8).