Channel 5 remains part of the Paramount “ecosystem” as the Skydance sale progresses and the network’s American owners are even “envious” of its model, according to UK chief Sarah Rose.

Speaking at the Vlv Conference, Rose stressed she can’t comment on the ongoing $8B sale, which should complete in the first half of next year, but posited: “Paramount is being sold to another owner and therefore Channel 5 is being sold with it, we are part of that ecosystem.” Chatter has abound since Paramount went on the block over the future of the American giant’s local international channels, which includes Australia’s Network 10.

Under content boss Ben Frow, Channel 5 has nurtured a reputation for punching above its weight with hits including All Creatures Great and Small and Michael Palin in North Korea. Rose, who is also Paramount Global regional lead, said her American owners recognize this and...