ITV's 'most expensive flop' in years to be 'axed' after very low viewership
The programme starring Doctor Who and Broadchurch actor David Tennant is said to have suffered from very low viewing figures since its launch earlier this year.
The Genius Game sees 11 contestants go head-to-head while testing their intelligence in what has been dubbed a "fiendish battle of wits".
However, viewing figures from Broadcast Now have shown that only 1.2 million people tuned in to watch its first-ever episode.
After 7 intense weeks of social strategy and betrayals, the final episode of #GeniusGame is ready for you on ITVX. pic.twitter.com/yimfyU9GYi
— ITV (@ITV) June 12, 2025
Now, according to reports from The Metro and The Sun, the Genius Game starring David Tennant is at risk of being cancelled.
An inside source claimed the show's future isn't optimistic after it failed to compete against Race Across The World on the BBC
They said: "Publicly, ITV maintains that no firm decision has been taken, but most execs and commissioners view it as a disaster.
"Not only did it occupy a primetime 9pm slot, it had a big-name host and was seen as a potential rival for BBC's The Traitors.
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"But of the five main channels on June 11, it was beaten by two and equalled by BBC Two, thanks to those pangolins."
Another source said that the whole of David Tennant is a beloved household name; his involvement with the show only increased costs and made it an even "bigger blow" for the broadcaster.
However, an ITV spokesperson has said no decision about the show's future has been made.
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