Story perspectives

NBCUniversal Cancels Access Hollywood Amid Daytime TV Shift

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

NBCUniversal has canceled Access Hollywood, Karamo, and The Steve Wilkos Show as part of a shift in its first-run syndication strategy.
Frances Berwick, Chairman of Bravo and Peacock unscripted, confirmed the decision and said it aligns with local stations' preferences.
Access Hollywood began in 1996 and will produce episodes through September 2026.
The cancellations reflect broader daytime-TV challenges from rising costs and competition from video podcasts reducing audience demand.

History

Historical Context

In 2006, the FCC enacted regulations that transformed television broadcasting, compelling networks like NBCUniversal to adapt to changing viewer preferences. The cancellation of Access Hollywood, which premiered in 1996, underscores the challenges traditional daytime TV faces from competition with video podcasts and escalating production costs, marking a significant shift in media consumption and programming strategies.

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Story summary

NBCUniversal has canceled Access Hollywood, Karamo, and The Steve Wilkos Show as part of a shift in its first-run syndication strategy.
Frances Berwick, Chairman of Bravo and Peacock unscripted, confirmed the decision and said it aligns with local stations' preferences.
Access Hollywood began in 1996 and will produce episodes through September 2026.
The cancellations reflect broader daytime-TV challenges from rising costs and competition from video podcasts reducing audience demand.

1 / 2