The BBC has confirmed that long-running home renovation series DIY SOS will be "rested" in 2027 amid the corporation's ongoing "savings challenges". The show, fronted by Nick Knowles, has helped families across the UK create safer and more suitable homes for more than two decades, often taking on challenging projects following life-changing circumstances.
Instead, a new programme called DIY SOS Rebuilt My Life will look back at some of the series' most memorable transformations, offering a chance to catch up with families who have previously featured. The BBC confirmed the decision was linked to its financial pressures, but insisted the brand would continue in a different form.
Spin-off to expand brand cost-effectively
A BBC spokesperson said: "In light of the BBC’s savings challenges we have taken the decision to rest DIY SOS in 2027 and commission a new spin-off show instead from producers South Shore. DIY SOS Rebuilt My Life will revisit successes from the show’s past and expand the brand on the BBC in a more cost-effective way next year."
The move comes as the broadcaster works towards saving £500 million over three years, with several other familiar programmes already facing the axe. Among the shows cancelled are Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live At The Apollo.
Evolution from original format to The Big Build
Since its debut in 1999, DIY SOS has evolved considerably from its original format, which saw Knowles and a small team help people put right failed home improvement projects. The series took a new direction in 2010 with the introduction of DIY SOS: The Big Build, bringing together tradespeople, volunteers and local communities to carry out much larger renovations for families in difficult circumstances.
Some of its biggest projects have involved high-profile figures. In 2015, Knowles joined forces with the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Sussex and hundreds of volunteers to turn a neglected street in Manchester into accommodation for veterans. Three years later, Prince William appeared again as the team supported people affected by the Grenfell Tower fire, which killed 72 people in June 2017.
Across the two-part special, the programme helped create a new community centre and restore Dale Youth Boxing Club, which had been destroyed in the fire. The latest series has also delivered emotional moments, with Knowles breaking down during a renovation featured in an episode earlier this month.
The team worked on the home of 16-year-old Dan, who has spent three years in hospital after undergoing life-saving surgery to remove a brain tumour. The operation left him with complex disabilities, and the renovation was described as "physically and emotionally draining".
The current series is still airing, with viewers able to watch episodes on BBC One each week or catch up through BBC iPlayer.
