The BBC has cancelled three popular programmes as part of its first phase of cost-saving measures, with warnings that more cuts are on the way. The axed shows are quiz programmes Blankety Blank and Celebrity Mastermind, alongside comedy series Live at the Apollo. The corporation cited declining viewership as the reason for the decisions.
Cancellations part of £500m savings plan
These cancellations are part of the broadcaster's initial proposals to save £500 million over three years. The BBC thanked the production teams, stating it was "incredibly proud of all three of these much-loved shows". The cuts will reduce originated TV programming by over 100 hours by the end of 2027/28.
Falling viewing figures
Blankety Blank's revival averaged 5.5 million viewers in 2021 but dropped to 2.3 million in its most recent series. Live at the Apollo, including iPlayer figures, fell from 1.3 million in 2018 to around 660,000. The main Mastermind series will continue, but its spin-off Celebrity Mastermind will end after the next series as viewership halved over the years.
Digital innovation and future cuts
The BBC said it will explore "prioritising digital innovation" to provide content, including plans to focus on emerging comedy talent. Further announcements about savings in the content division are expected in the coming months, with other genres likely to be affected. The broadcaster noted it has a target of delivering a minimum of £100 million in recurring annual savings, resulting in a reduction of approximately 100-150 hours of originated TV programmes across genres by 2027/28.
