Steph’s Packed Lunch has undergone a major host shake-up – one week after it was confirmed to be getting the chop.
The Channel 4 show, which was launched in March 2020, is usually hosted by former BBC Breakfast star Steph McGovern. However for Friday’s episode (October 27) things were looking a little different.
Instead of the Middlesbrough lass welcoming viewers, it was Strictly judge Anton Du Beke. Steph’s absence from the show comes one week after it was confirmed it will be axed later this year when the contract ends in December 2023.
READ MORE: Steph’s Packed Lunch star ‘gutted’ as they break silence on sudden show axe
READ MORE: Channel 4 chaos as Steph McGovern turns up late to show as co-star forced to step in
The daytime TV show will sadly be removed from air after just over three years. A statement from Channel 4 confirmed they had made the decision to cut the show on Thursday afternoon.
The broadcaster said: “With audience habits changing quicker than ever, we have to make difficult decisions about which programmes to invest in to best drive our digital-first strategy.” They added that they made the decision to not recommission the show when the contract ends in December. “We remain as committed as ever to our mission to help level up the TV industry outside London and to our 50% origination out-of-London target,” they added.
(Image: Channel 4)
It was confirmed that the budget committed to the show would be reinvested into other nations and regions productions.” They went on: “We will continue to build on the legacy of the show. Evolving what we do in line with our digital ambitions whilst continuing to reflect the lives of, and give a voice to, all our audiences across the UK and hope to work with Steph on other projects soon.”
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A spokesperson for Expectation and Can Can told Daily Star: “We’ve had over three fantastic years producing Steph’s Packed Lunch together and working with the brilliant Steph McGovern and the outstanding on-screen family of talent. We’re very disappointed that despite building a loyal audience we don’t get to continue brightening up 12-2 on Channel 4.
“Leeds didn’t have a live television community four years ago and it’s been a privilege to build a team which boasts some of the brightest, sharpest TV producers in the country.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
