Channel 4's 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown paused as fans fear 'axing' after worrying update

Channel 4's 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown paused as fans fear 'axing' after worrying update

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Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 08/05/2024

- 16:03

The broadcaster has been cutting back on some of its classic shows

Fans of Channel 4 gameshow 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown have been left concerned by news the show has been paused.

The Jimmy Carr series has been on screens since 2012, but it seems the final show could have been broadcast if no future episodes make it to air, which some viewers are fearing is the case.


Deadline in the US first broke the news and soon after on X, formerly Twitter, it was reported by British Comedy Guide: "Channel 4 reportedly has no plans to film any more episodes of 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown in 2024, but it does still have one already-recorded series to show later this year.

"The pause has been attributed to the network's funding issues."

Fans immediately took to the comments to express concerns about the decision, with one writing: "Axing incoming I guess."

"Disappointing news, much rather see more new editions of this than Gogglebox which never seems to be off the channel," a second said.

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown

The show has become the latest to be impacted by Channel 4's funding issues

Channel 4

"Channel 4 broke as hell," someone else added while another shared: "Seems channel 4 are in free fall. No new episodes of this and no new filming for hunted either. Hollyoaks practically cancelled. Not looking good."

Not everyone took the same stance though, with some welcoming the news. One argued: "Good. . It should have ended years ago." (sic)

The network has recently slowed down a number of its shows, with Deadline reportedly being told the current series has been filmed.

"We have already shot episodes which are ready to air," a spokesperson told the publication.

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown

The show used to star the late Sean Lock

Channel 4

They continued: "To keep the show current we will shoot further episodes nearer transmission.”

According to the publication, Channel 4 was unable to say when the new episodes would be shot. GB News has contacted Channel 4 for comment.

The programme has always been a success on the channel, becoming one of the broadcaster's longest-running shows.

It features Jon Richardson as the main captain, with a rotating guest captain ever since comedian Sean Lock died in 2021.

Jimmy Carr

The Channel 4 show is hosted by Jimmy Carr

Channel 4

The show features rounds from quiz show Countdown and includes games and comedic segments, with Countdown stars Rachel Riley and Susie Dent also featuring.

Channel 4 series Hunted will also not see any new episodes this year, and some of last year's shows have been axed.

These include Paddy MccGuinness' Tempting Fortune, Alone, Rise & Fall and Scared of the Dark.

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