Once upon a time ITV’s Benidorm was one of the most popular comedy dramas, pulling in millions of viewers, but insiders say it now faces the axe as it has apparently had its day.
It has been reported that the once much-loved programme is suffering from falling viewing figures after a decade on our screens.
Since it started in 2007 some of its main characters have been scrapped, which has caused a backlash among some viewers, and as the contract is due for renewal soon many are worried it won’t be renewed for another series.
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A source has told The Sun: “Some feel the show has done its time. It’s still popular but many of the old faces are long gone.
“There is a feeling it is going through the motions.
“Series 11 is yet to be commissioned and the concern is if it does take a break it might never come back.”
Actor John Challis, who plays conman Monty in the ITV show, has also spoken out to say he’s not sure the show will continue. He told The Sun that “mucking about” with the timeslot has annoyed some viewers.
He said: “I think the show may take a year off for a pause and rethink.
“I think it’s ideal to come out in January or February, and I’m looking forward to it but there’s no guarantee.”
ITV neither denied or confirmed the reports that the show could be axed, as an ITV spokesman told The Sun: “The new series airs next year. Any decisions on commissioning will be made around then.”
As expected over the years a lot has changed in Benidorm, and new characters are being added as it was recently reported that comedian Bobby Ball has been signed up for the 10th series of the show. If it gets to the 10th series that is!
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Viewers haven’t been happy lately about some changes to the format of the show, as a petition was launched in March by angry fans, to bring back the Garvey family. The popular clan led by dad, Mick, and mum, Janice, with kids Chantelle and Michael, and nan, Madge Harvey, left during series seven. They were replaced by the Dawson family.
Benidorm has won several awards in the past including the Most Popular Comedy Programme at the National Television Awards twice.