Huge Channel 5 show cancelled after 21 years following controversial rebrand
Channel 5 has pulled the plug on one of its longest-running shows after a rebrand that failed to win over its loyal fanbase. When The Gadget Show first started airing in 2004 it became a staple for tech enthusiasts across the UK, with its deep dives into the latest gadgets, product testing, and tech challenges.
But in 2023 show bosses decided to shake things up, rebranding the programme as The Good Gadget Guide: Shop Smart, Save Money, and shifting its focus from cutting-edge tech to broader consumer advice.
Presenters Gaby Roslin and Ortis Deley were brought in as the new faces of the reimagined series, following the departure of Angellica Bell.
But the fresh format and new name failed to resonate with long-time viewers. A TV insider told The Sun: "The Gadget Show had a loyal following for years, but fans were left less than impressed when Channel 5 played with the established format.
"It resulted in long-term viewers tuning out for good, while others slowly dwindled away. Between production changes and fan-favourite presenters being replaced, the show lost its appeal. After weighing up production costs, a decision was made to scrap the series."
Although Channel 5 previously defended the rebrand, insisting it would allow the show to appeal to "a broader audience" while offering "valuable insights in the realm of technology", that soon proved not to be the case.
When The Good Gadget Guide first started airing, a spokesperson addressed unhappy fans, saying: "While the latest series has proved popular, we acknowledge that there has been some negative feedback regarding the recent format change.
"We understand that change can sometimes be met with mixed reactions, and we appreciate the feedback we have received from our viewers.
"Our goal is to strike a balance that appeals to a diverse audience while staying true to our commitment of providing valuable and engaging content in the world of technology."
Long-term fans of the original Gadget Show were saddened by the show's decreased focus on tech, and some have turned to YouTube instead to rewatch classic episodes featuring presenters like Jason Bradbury, Suzi Perry, Jon Bentley, Craig Charles, and Georgie Barrat.
Fan have criticised the revamp on social media. One viewer wrote: "You ruined the show the moment you tried to turn it into a bargain-hunting segment." Another added: "They should have left it as it was. If I wanted money-saving tips, I'd watch Shop Well for Less."
After the format overhaul, the series ran for just four seasons before being dropped. Last year production company North One launched a tech podcast hosted by the show's original stars, Jason and Suzi, in an attempt to recapture some of its former magic.
At its peak The Gadget Show was known for innovative segments, live challenges, and on-location testing. However, many felt the recent shift in focus robbed the series of its most interesting parts.
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