How British Comedy Show ‘Mock the Week’ Found New Life on TLC After BBC Cancellation: ‘Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder’
When long-running BBC comedy show “Mock the Week” returned to television screens after a three-year hiatus this past spring, fans may have noticed some changes: not only was the show longer and “looser” but it was also airing on TLC, the Warner Bros. Discovery-owned network. “It
The revival of "Mock the Week" on TLC is a significant development in the world of comedy, particularly given the show's history on the BBC. The fact that the show was able to find new life on a different network after a three-year hiatus suggests that there is still a strong appetite for this type of comedy, and that the show's absence may have actually contributed to its renewed popularity. This phenomenon is often referred to as "absence makes the heart grow fonder," and it will be interesting to see if other cancelled shows can replicate this success.
The move to TLC also highlights the changing landscape of television, where traditional broadcast networks are no longer the only players in town. Cable networks like TLC are increasingly looking to establish themselves as destinations for high-quality comedy programming, and the acquisition of "Mock the Week" is a savvy move in this regard. The show's longer and more relaxed format may also be a nod to the changing viewing habits of audiences, who are increasingly accustomed to binge-watching and more flexible programming.
As the comedy landscape continues to evolve, it will be worth watching to see how "Mock the Week" performs on TLC, and whether other cancelled shows can follow in its footsteps. The success of the show's revival may also have implications for the way that networks approach cancellation decisions, and whether they consider giving shows a second chance on different platforms. Additionally, the fact that "Mock the Week" is now on a network that is not traditionally associated with comedy may help to attract a new audience to the show, and could potentially lead to a resurgence in popularity for the program.
Originally reported by variety.com. ScandalNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.