BBC Two's decision to replace the live broadcast of Saturday Kitchen with a compilation episode has sparked outrage among viewers. The show, typically hosted by Matt Tebbutt, was pre-empted on Saturday to make way for extensive coverage of the Paris Olympics.
The special edition, titled "Saturday Kitchen's Tastiest Treats," featured a montage of popular recipes from past episodes, including segments with chefs Gennaro Contaldo, Nisha Katona, and Yotam Ottolenghi. However, fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with some accusing the BBC of relying on repeats and calling the show "lazy."
One viewer commented: "Or another chance to show more REPEATS this program really is going downhill fast and no brakes." Another added: "Lazy use of the #bbclicense fee!!" The backlash comes as the BBC reshuffles its schedule to prioritise Olympic events, which run until August 11.
This is not the first time the show has been affected; earlier, BBC Breakfast presenters Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty had their airtime reduced for Olympic swimming coverage. Saturday Kitchen's regular live episodes are expected to resume after the Games conclude.
