I have just read (belatedly) that Zoe Salmon has also quit Blue Peter. That means that this series will end with only Andy left. Although they both cite other challenges as reasons for leaving, I can't help but feel it is a continuation of Konnie's basis for quitting - i.e. a substantial change to the programme they joined 3-4 years ago.
It will be interesting, come September, to see what changes, if any, are made to the series in preparation for its 50th anniversary in October. I hope they take this chance to relocate to a bigger studio again, or at least do something whole-hearted with the current set. Also, they need to rerecord the theme music and get rid of the hideous titles/graphics. It might also be a good time to update the word-mark that has remained the same since the 1999 rebrand.
Talking of BP, did anyone see The Weakest Link special on Saturday? Crikey there were some snotty-nosed former presenters on that!
I enjoyed it a lot! Great fun - but then, those specials are most of the time.
I think it will be very interesting to see the changes in the new series - but I don't reckon they'll do an awful lot besides new presenters. Though I am half expecting Andy presenting it on his own.
It's a crying shame about Blue Peter. 50 years is a fantastic achievement for a children's show, as many lose their novelty and children's interests change. It was bound to happen; Internet and the multi-channel era really have had an impact on the popularity of the show, with the presenter's leaving the final blow to the programme's integrity.
Maybe 623058 is right - let it hit 50 years and leave it preserved with what little dignity is left, they really didn't adapt well enough to the 21st century for today's kids, and let's face it, doing that is better than Grange Hill - shunting it, changing a loved format then killing it.
Kids need more from BP that is relevant these days, in the era where there is so much to do, they need to offer something that makes kids really want to turn it on in the afternoon. And if BP is to continue, this is sorely needed.
I think their mistake is trying to become all hip and trendy - because it comes across the same as cringe-worthy, and as if it's a supply teacher trying to be your friend.
talking of blue peter - does anyone remember on there 45th anniversary where they showed this drama like based on blue peter? If so what was it called? The only thing about it is I remember someone eneded up covered in blue peter "make" materials and a washing up liquid cap taped over their mouth...
I imagine the series ends in the next couple of weeks then - for the past few years it's been ending in June.
Unless they get very lucky with the new hosts and find the shows soul once again, I really don't see how it's going to recover from the departure of three key hosts in such a short space of time, especially when Andy isn't an established enough presenter to build a new team around.
Presumably the new hosts will be revealed at the end of the series in time for the Summer Expedition - though I don't think anyone would be surprised if the situation was used as an excuse to axe that tradition too.
I think this series has ended later than the last did. I know traditionally it's the end of June when the series has finished, but I'm sure last year's had an " early end ".
According to the Radio Times, Wednesday is Gethin and Zoe's last day.
Well a very odd last programme for Gethin and Zoe. The programme seemed to flash in between it being their last show and the new editor’s attempt of celebrating his first year.
Gethin did pay tribute to former Editor, Richard Marson, so good on him.
Well I enjoyed Geth and Zoe's last show - far better attempt than poor Konnie's. I'm intrigued now as to how the new series will look and feel in September.
) in the middle of saying goodbye to two presenters.