Channel 4 Pulls the Plug on Steph McGovern’s Packed Lunch

Steph McGovern’s Packed Lunch cancelled by Channel 4

Steph’s Packed Lunch, Channel 4’s daytime show hosted by Steph McGovern, will come to an end at the end of this year, according to an announcement by the broadcaster. The show initially launched from McGovern’s living room during the first Covid lockdown in 2020, and later moved to a studio in Leeds, becoming the channel’s main offering from the city. Channel 4 cited rapidly changing audience habits as the reason for the decision, stating that difficult choices had to be made on which programs to invest in to best drive their digital-first strategy.

Reflecting on the show’s impact

In a statement, Channel 4 expressed pride in Steph’s Packed Lunch and gratitude towards McGovern and the production team for their role in kick-starting the channel’s growth in the north of England. Not only has the show made lunchtimes more entertaining and reflected the views and concerns of the country, but it has also provided a platform for developing local talent behind the scenes. The decision not to recommission the show was attributed to the rapidly changing habits of the audience, necessitating careful investment in programs that align with the channel’s digital-first strategy.

The changing landscape of television

The cancellation of Steph’s Packed Lunch is indicative of the evolving television landscape. In an era of streaming services and on-demand content, traditional broadcast channels must adapt and find new ways to engage their audiences. This requires strategic decision-making on programming choices and investments. The daily show, which currently attracts approximately 140,000 viewers, faced competition from other main channels during its time slot.

Channel 4 remains committed to its mission of leveling up the television industry outside of London. The broadcaster aims to spend 50% of its program budget outside the capital and has offices in Bristol and Glasgow in addition to its new base in Leeds. The money previously allocated to Steph’s Packed Lunch will be reinvested in other shows produced outside of London, although specific details were not provided. The statement reassured that the number of roles outside London will continue to increase in the coming years.

A disappointment for the production companies

The production companies behind Steph’s Packed Lunch, Expectation and Can Can, expressed their disappointment in the show’s cancellation. They highlighted the three years of collaboration with Steph McGovern and the talented on-screen family. Building on the success of the show, the companies expressed pride in building a team of skilled producers in Leeds, transforming it into a thriving live television community. The cancellation of Steph’s Packed Lunch follows the recent announcement that the BBC’s daily show, Doctors, will also be ending next year.

Implications for the television industry in Leeds

Steph’s Packed Lunch played a significant role in establishing Leeds as a prominent media city outside of London. With its cancellation, there may be concerns about the impact on local talent development and employment opportunities for the region. The growth of the television industry in Leeds has been a positive outcome of the show, and efforts should be made to ensure continued investment and support for creative endeavors in the area.

Conclusion

The cancellation of Steph’s Packed Lunch reflects the broader challenges faced by traditional television channels in adapting to changing audience habits. While the show has made a significant impact, it is essential for Channel 4 to make strategic decisions to align with their digital-first strategy. The decision to reinvest the money in other shows produced outside of London reaffirms the broadcaster’s commitment to leveling up the industry and creating opportunities beyond the capital. However, the cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing for the production companies involved and raises questions about the future of the television industry in Leeds. Efforts should be made to ensure that the talent and creativity fostered by shows like Steph’s Packed Lunch continue to thrive and contribute to the growth of the media sector in the region.

Sources:

• BBC News