By Tony O’Reilly-
Channel 4 has announced the cancellation of its reality show “Scared of the Dark,” just after one series.
The decision to scrap the program comes as part of a broader plan by the broadcaster to reduce its full-time workforce by 15%, affecting 250 roles.
This move is said to reflect the network’s response to economic challenges and shifts in advertising market demand.
The reality series which involved celebrities enduring eight days in complete darkness, captured the attention of audiences with its unique premise. It was an eye catcher.
Some critics felt the broadcaster had premised its show on the notion of a television game for celebrities as participants- raising questions in some quarters about whether the broadcaster was endorsing all the participants as people who should be celebrated.
Danny Dyer himself said he had been excited to have Paul Gascoigne on the show because Gazza was his icon.
The iconic trigger for DY is derived from former England Ace’s past sporting glories, which is part of what should be achieved together.
The inclusion of Paul Gascoigne in that mix was theoretically problematic due to his documented battle with alcohol.
That’s because Gazza is well known for his battle with chronic alcoholism, one that has manifested itself in different ways over the years.
Scared of the dark television contestants pose for celebrity photos T Gazza’s handler’s are believed to have felt the need to keep Gazza busy, especially with a name that could be rewarding in many ways.
But after he last month declared himself a sad drunk living in his agent’s sofa, it became clear that the former football desperately needed special help.
Whether a sad drunk is one that should be presented to society as a celebrity is a question about which everybody has a clear opinion.
Although opinion is divided in this area, with numerous views in favour of normalising alcoholics being considered celebrities, if they have excelled in a particular field, and if they are also famous.
Other academics are insistent that that famous people who do not meet a minimum standard of ‘honourable’ should not be eligible to being a celebrity.
Substantial Viewership
Despite garnering a substantial viewership, including over a million viewers, Channel 4 has opted to discontinue the show.
One of the standout moments from the program’s last season was the participation of notable personalities such as Love Island star Chloe Burrows, ex-boxer Chris Eubank, and comedian Chris McCausland.
Some observers had voiced concerns about promoting a struggling alcoholic as a celebrity.
Others believe a celebrity never loses his status, against the entrenched academic view that the term celebrity should be understood in the context of its origin-”honour and esteem” in its historic meaning.
This would mean celebrities would need to be honourable and people who are well esteemed in their community or world.
Well esteemed in this context would include the celebrity being a role model to their generation. And if that was too high a standard, they would at least be expected not to be a bad influence on society.
Gascoigne’s presence on the program sparked discussions regarding the responsibility of media platforms in portraying individuals with addiction problems.”
While “Scared of the Dark” provided entertaining moments, including Chris Eubank’s attempts to maintain his alpha male persona and Chris McCausland showcasing his unique perspective as a blind comedian, Channel 4’s decision to axe the show signals a strategic shift for the broadcaster.
Channel 4 Chief Executive Alex Mahon emphasized the need for structural changes in response to evolving market dynamics, stating, “I am very sad that some of our excellent colleagues will lose their jobs.
But the reality of the rapid downshift in the economy and advertising market demand we must change structurally.”
She expressed confidence that the broadcaster’s new strategy would enable it to maintain its status as a trusted, disruptive, and distinctive brand.
The cancellation of “Scared of the Dark” follows similar moves by Channel 4, including the axing of other shows like “SAS: Who Dares Wins” and “Steph’s Packed Lunch.”
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