Richard Osman's ominous BBC axe warning as 'more shows will go'

Richard Osman has shed light on the BBC's financial struggles and the potential impact on its programming slate. The esteemed author and television personality, known for creating the hit quiz show Pointless on BBC One, hosting Two Tribes on BBC Two, and currently fronting Richard Osman's House of Games, as well as helming the comedy panel show Insert Name Here, delved into the broadcaster's fiscal challenges during his The Rest Is Entertainment podcast.

Osman, 53, highlighted the stark reality facing the corporation, noting: "The BBC has an awful lot less money than it used to, so some stuff has to go," while discussing the future of the BBC's content amidst budget cuts. He elaborated on the dire situation, stating, "The BBC has pretty much run out of money.

"All those mid-level programmes are sort of done. It's too expensive to launch new things with the money they've got so we're going to have the same shows for a very long time."

Osman didn't shy away from the implications for current affairs programming, adding: "And more topical will be dropping by the wayside. Everything has to sing for its supper now."

He further explained the triple financial hurdle that programmes must now overcome: "Everything now how to pay its way in three different ways. It has to pay its way in ratings, then it has to pay its way in repeatability and it has to pay its way in international sales.", reports the Mirror.

This commentary arrives on the heels of news that the BBC decided to axe the beloved quiz show A Question Of Sport just a month prior.

Bosses have pulled the plug on the family-friendly programme, which had an impressive fifty-year run, due to falling ratings and limited iPlayer appeal. However, they were quick to assert that the brand is not up for sale and the broadcaster retains the right to revive it in the future.

This decision follows the controversial removal of Sue Barker as presenter in 2020, along with long-standing team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell.

Paddy McGuinness stepped in as host, with Sam Quek and Ugo Monye leading the teams, but their stint, which spanned two series, failed to captivate audiences. A significant number of viewers voiced their dissatisfaction, arguing that Paddy's lack of a sporting background made him an unsuitable choice.

A BBC spokesperson clarified last month: "Due to inflation and funding challenges difficult decisions have to be made, therefore Question of Sport is currently not in production at the moment."

An insider suggested that while the show has ceased production for now, it could potentially make a comeback in the future, much like The Weakest Link, which ended in 2012 under Anne Robinson, only to return in 2020 with Romesh Ranganathan at the helm.

"We have to provide value for money to licence fee payers and prioritise high-impact content that drives viewers to BBC iPlayer," the insider elaborated. "So, for now, Question of Sport is taking a break and there are no current plans for its return."