Rockford, Illinois, residents will be getting three new channels under 19 WSLN, which will serve as the new home for Stateline’s CW, Circle, and Antenna TV.
Channel 19 will launch with these three networks and noted it may add more programs as “opportunities arise,” according to WIFR and parent company Gray Media. Stateline’s CW will be found on 19.1, Circle on 19.2, and Antenna TV on 19.3. The networks are moving from 23 WIFR to WSLN to increase their reach and give the channels more cable and satellite access.
While the networks transition to the new channels, they will broadcast on both stations for a few months so audiences won’t miss any of their favorite content and news programs. Broadcasting simultaneously gives the channels some wiggle room as viewers, cable, satellite, and streaming services adjust their offerings.
WIFR was not immediately available for comment to verify when the networks will broadcast solely on Channel 19.
Audiences can still catch 23 News on 23.1 as well as 23.10 and 23.11 for now.
“That includes 23 News First Edition, 23 News This Morning, The Morning Blend, First at 4, and 23 News at Noon, 5, 6, and The Update at 10:00 p.m.,” said WIFR. “All CBS and syndicated programs will stay right where they are.”
Gray Media Inc., the parent company of 23 WIFR, turned over its full licensing to the Federal Communications Commission in 2017 to “make room for improved cellular products,” said WIFR. The FCC auctioned the WSLN license, which Gray Media bought.
WIFR outlines the lineup for each station in Rockford as follows:
19 WSLN
- 19.1 The Stateline’s CW
- 19.2 Circle TV
- 19.3 Antenna TV
23 WIFR
- 23.1 WIFR CBS
- 23.4 ION
- 23.6 Defy