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BBC Weighs Overhaul of “Gardeners’ World” as Licence-Fee Decline Accelerates
By Drooid · · How we work
BBC Faces Licence-Fee Pressure Over Gardeners’ World Revamp
The corporation is exploring a format shift for the long-running Friday-night gardening series after its 23-year host, Monty Don, announced he will leave at the end of the current series. Executives fear that retaining the programme’s 1.5 million-plus loyal viewers may be insufficient to stem a broader loss of licence-fee revenue; the BBC reports that active licences fell by 539,000 last year, prompting a £500 million savings target.
Background: Monty Don’s Exit and Licence-Fee Losses
Don, 71, disclosed his departure following a minor stroke in 2008 and a contract that expired on 31 December. He described his tenure as “deeply rewarding” and said the timing felt “right for a change.” The BBC’s chief content officer, Kate Phillips, praised Don as “a wonderfully engaging broadcaster.” Internally, the corporation is considering younger presenters, such as award-winning garden designer Lee Burkhill, to attract the “YouTube audience” and boost iPlayer performance.
Official Statements & Responses
A BBC spokesperson confirmed that any alterations to the series will be announced in due course. The corporation also reiterated its commitment to a new series of the show in 2027, while acknowledging the need to adapt to digital viewing habits dominated by drama, reality and entertainment content.