The BBC has axed three major shows in an attempt to cut costs. Confirming the news on Wednesday, the broadcasting giant revealed that Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live at the Apollo will not be returning.
Details of the cancellations
While Blankety Blank is officially off the slate, the BBC has clarified that Mastermind, which is presented by journalist Clive Myrie, is not at risk of cancellation and will continue to air. As for Celebrity Mastermind and Live at the Apollo, both programmes are waiting to broadcast one final series before bowing out.
Official statement from the BBC
In an official statement, the BBC said: 'We are incredibly proud of all three of these much-loved shows and would like to thank everyone involved, both in front of and behind the camera, for bringing them to screen and making them such a success over many years. Unfortunately, we have to make some really tough choices in light of our funding challenges, and these savings have been identified from the Entertainment genre. We will still continue to commission ambitious Entertainment shows and invest in distinctive UK content from a wide range of independent production companies of all sizes, as well as prioritising digital innovation that can serve fans of these shows and beyond - for example, we will shortly be announcing digital plans focused on stand-up and emerging comedy talent, ensuring we continue to support the stand-up community in a rapidly changing and increasingly competitive media landscape.'
Viewer reactions
Viewers took to X and shared their disappointment. One penned: 'Shame about Celebrity Mastermind - that had some hilarious moments...' Another wrote: 'Canceling Live at the Apollo speaks volumes about the dire state of comedy in UK right now.' A third quizzed: 'Can we cancel the license fee?'
Cost-cutting measures
According to the broadcaster, Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live at the Apollo have all been axed as part of the BBC's plans to save £500million over the next three years. In order to reach that goal, the company is honing in on BBC Content, and intends to cull 100-150 hours of originated TV programmes across genres by the end of 2027/28.
