A new gameshow fronted by much-loved presenter Graham Norton has been shifted from its prominent Saturday evening primetime slot on ITV due to reported low ratings. The programme, which launched recently, will now air later in the schedule, making way for a repeat episode of the popular quiz show 'Beat the Chasers' from 2021.
The decision by ITV to move the show underscores the intense competition for viewership during the crucial Saturday night slot, traditionally a staple of family entertainment programming in the UK. While specific rating figures for Norton's new venture have not been widely disclosed, the schedule change indicates it did not meet the broadcaster's expectations for audience engagement in its initial high-profile position.
Graham Norton is a highly recognisable figure in British television, celebrated for his long-running BBC chat show, 'The Graham Norton Show', which has garnered numerous BAFTA Television Awards. He is also synonymous with the UK's coverage of the Eurovision Song Contest, bringing his unique blend of wit and charm to millions. His move into a new ITV gameshow format represented a significant new venture for the broadcaster, aiming to leverage his widespread popularity.
The shift in schedule is a reminder that even established and popular presenters face challenges in launching new formats, particularly in the highly scrutinised primetime slots. Saturday evenings are a battleground for broadcasters, with BBC often airing shows like 'Strictly Come Dancing' and ITV traditionally offering a mix of entertainment and talent shows. 'Beat the Chasers', a spin-off from 'The Chase', has proven to be a consistent performer for ITV, making it a reliable choice for the slot.
Viewers wishing to catch Graham Norton's new gameshow will need to check revised schedules for its later broadcast time. 'The Graham Norton Show' continues to air on BBC One and is available for catch-up on BBC iPlayer, while his new ITV programme's future in the long term will likely depend on its performance in its new slot.