[gottago]

I can't see them touch the basic channel lineup - Sky has been aggressively expanding them since Comcast took over, and I'd imagine it would cost less compared to the Sky Sports channels.

I actually think, IF they lose The Simpsons, that Sky Showcase might ultimately be for the chop. It just seems like such a pointless channel otherwise. Like others, I expect E!, Movies 24 and maybe Challenge will likely also be shut down.

The Simpsons doesn't really rate on Sky Showcase. The channel serves its purpose well and is their second most watched subscription entertainment channel so is unlikely to be going anywhere.