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BBC axes Watchdog after 40 years to become a segment on The One Show

Photo credit: BBC
Photo credit: BBC

From Digital Spy

The BBC has decided to axe Watchdog after 40 years on air.

Instead, the show – which investigates complaints and concerns voiced by viewers about traders, retailers and other UK companies – will become a segment on The One Show.

Since it first appeared on television screens four decades ago, Watchdog has produced more than 1,000 episodes and been hosted by many presenters from The Weakest Link's Anne Robinson and Radio 5 Live's Nicky Campbell to BBC Breakfast's Steph McGovern and regular One Show contributor Matt Allwright.

Photo credit: The One Show - BBC
Photo credit: The One Show - BBC

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Explaining the decision to pull its standalone broadcast, a source told The Sun: "The BBC is being forced to make cuts and unfortunately the bosses have decided they cannot justify keeping Watchdog as a full series, twice a year."

Carla-Maria Lawson, the Head of Daytime and Early Peak at the BBC, added: "Watchdog has been tenaciously fighting for viewers rights since the strand started 40 years ago within Nationwide.

"So it's fitting that in its anniversary year we are able to open up the potential for viewers to connect with the brand through The One Show."

Rob Unsworth, Editor of The One Show also said: "Bringing the quality, investigative journalism of the much-loved and trusted Watchdog brand to viewers year-round is an exciting move and a great opportunity for The One Show, and means that more than ever the team can react on behalf of consumers whenever stories come up."

Photo credit: BBC
Photo credit: BBC

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Alison Kirkham, Controller of BBC Factual confirmed that Allwright will "continue to be the viewers trusted guide" on the nation's consumer rights in Watchdog's new format, as will current co-host Nikki Fox.

The One Show airs Mondays through Fridays at 7pm on BBC One.


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