A method and an apparatus for receiving and displaying event messages associated with subscribed video channels, in particular television channels received by a set top box, or other television receivers, in a user location. According to the present principles, the user selects one or more channels to be included in a subscription list, which is transmitted to a message server. A second screen device, such as a smartphone, or a tablet, receives and displays event messages associated with television channels on the subscribed list, which are not currently being received, processed and displayed. The event messages may comprise, for example, program descriptions, and comments that are generated by a production company or via social networks. In this manner, a user is able to privately monitor other channels that he may be interested in, without disturbing the viewing by others.