Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan, and Gillian Burke present Autumnwatch
(Picture: BBC / PA)The BBC has declared that Autumnwatch has been cancelled due to “challenging times”.
The news was released just one week after TV host Chris Packham revealed he would be taking a little sabbatical from his duties.
Packham, who is an eco-activist who also has commitments to various charities, said he is in need of “some brain space” after working constantly for 40 years.
Autumnwatch debuted on the BBC in 2005, hosted by people such as Michaela Strachan, Gillian Burke, and Packham. It is a component of the broadcaster's seasonal wildlife programming, which also includes Winterwatch and Springwatch.
Why did the BBC cancel Autumnwatch?
Explaining the decision to axe Autumnwatch, the BBC has released an official statement, citing financial issues as a key factor in the decision. It reads: “These are challenging times financially and we need to make difficult decisions and focus our resources on content that has the highest impact. Sadly, this means that Autumnwatch will not be continuing. Instead, we are investing more money into Springwatch and Winterwatch, as they are most popular with audiences.
“We are incredibly proud of the Watches and would like to thank the presenters and production team who will continue on Springwatch when it returns in May for three weeks, and Winterwatch when it returns next year for one week, reduced from two weeks.”
How did fans react?
Evoking a strong response from fans, one user wrote: “Terrible decision which leaves a massive nature gap in the broadcasting calendar. We need more of this type of programme, not less. @bbcspringwatch #Autumnwatch is inspirational, uplifting, educational and exactly what I pay my licence fee for.”
Terrible decision which leaves a massive nature gap in the broadcasting calendar. We need more of this type of programme, not less. @bbcspringwatch #Autumnwatch is inspirational, uplifting, educational and exactly what I pay my licence fee for. https://t.co/1MP4Ad3zUj
— Jamie Wyver (@J__me) February 2, 2023
While a second user shared: “Come on @BBC! Why on earth cancel #Autumnwatch! It’s a vital show to help people to connect with nature in what is a very nature impoverished country! Please rethink this ridiculous decision! @BBCSpringwatch.”
Come on @BBC! Why on earth cancel #Autumnwatch! It's a vital show to help people to connect with nature in what is a very nature impoverished country! Please rethink this ridiculous decision! @BBCSpringwatch https://t.co/awPPOvFnWf
— Juliet Wilson (@craftygreenpoet) February 2, 2023
A third added: “Quite possibly one of the most informative, fascinating & educational s [sic] on the @BBC. It doesn’t make sense to cancel @autumnwatch. It’s as if the BBC don’t want us to learn the truth about the impact the climate is having on our wildlife! #autumnwatch #springwatch.”
Quite possibly one of the most informative, fascinating & educational s on the @BBC. It doesn't make sense to cancel @autumnwatch. It's as if the BBC don't want us to learn the truth about the impact the climate is having on our wildlife!#autumnwatch #springwatch pic.twitter.com/werFyL8GWp
— Pidge (She/Her) (@PidgeLee22) February 2, 2023
