E4 is a free-to-air television channel in England. E4 currently transmits episodes of Hollyoaks later the same day that they premiere on Channel 4 (streaming service). The channel is targeted to audiences 16 to 34 years of age, and transmits several US imported comedy, drama and reality shows, as well as English other shows. E4 originally required a subscription, but in December 2004, Channel 4 announced that the channel would become free-to-air.
E4 began airing Hollyoaks in January 2005, initially as a "first look" service. This service offered viewers the opportunity to view episodes of Hollyoaks prior to their transmission on Channel 4. Since Episode 6206 in September 2023, E4 became the sole linear television home of Hollyoaks after it left Channel 4 (aside from the omnibus).