Five Axes Family Affairs
Five has announced that its weekday serial drama, Family Affairs, will broadcast its final episode at the end of the year, coming to an end after eight years.
The broadcaster and the show’s production company, talkbackTHAMES, have agreed that the soap has “come to the end of its natural lifespan” and that it is time to “try something new”.
Dan Chambers, Five’s director of programmes, said that the decision to cut Family Affairs was a difficult one, but will use the budget allocated to the soap to fund a range of programming, including several new primetime drama projects and scripted comedy.
Commenting on the decision, Lorraine Heggessey, chief executive officer of talkbackTHAMES said: “I respect the decision and understand the reasons behind it, however I am disappointed as I felt we had bright new plans for the show including some strong new actors.”
Heggessey continued: “We have several drama projects in development with a variety of broadcasters and I’m looking forward to building upon our reputation and ability to produce award winning drama.”
Jonathan Young, head of drama at talkbackTHAMES added: “I know there will be many disappointed by the news but we must move forward and I’m excited about working with Five on new projects.”
After 2250 episodes the final Family Affairs will broadcast in December.
Last month saw the RTL secure complete control of the channel, after agreeing with United Business Media to acquire the outstanding 35.4% shareholding for £247.6 million (see RTL Seizes Full Control Of Five).
Five has seen steady growth in both its audience and advertising revenues since launch, with an operating profit reported for the first time last year. In its last full-year results the broadcaster reported revenues of £290 million and an operating profit of £19 million.
In May, Ofcom slashed the broadcasters licence fee payments by a massive 30% to £9 million for 2005, resulting in Five’s fees being reduced by 64% over the last three years, down from £25 million in 2002 to £13 million in 2004 prior to the latest cut (see NewsLine).
Five: 020 7550 5555 www.five.tv