Channel One Russia (known as the Public Russian Television until 2002) went on air in April 1995 as the successor to the Ostankino State TV and Radio Company, which had been the key broadcaster in the USSR, with a reach of 99.8% of the Russian population. Having inherited not only the band, but also the priceless professional experience of its predecessors, Channel One quickly rose to the leading position among Russian TV channels and has held it fast ever since.

In 1995, Channel One Russia started broadcasting abroad.