Anneka Rice self-deprecatingly pokes fun at Channel 5 dropping Challenge Anneka after two episodes
Anneka Rice has poked fun at Channel 5‘s decision to axe Challege Anneka after just two episodes.
It was revealed on Tuesday (28 March) that the return o the show, which first aired in 1989, had pulled episode three of the reboot from its programming schedule this weekend.
The move comes after episode two, which was broadcast on Saturday (25 March), attracted less than one million viewers.
A spokesperson for Channel 5 said: “The first episode of Challenge Anneka was enjoyed by 1.25 million viewers, but Saturday evenings are always highly competitive, especially at this time of year.
“The public and critical reaction to Challenge Anneka’s return has been amazing and we have decided to preserve the remaining two shows and reschedule them soon.”
Following this, Rice shared her “thanks” to viewers who had tuned in, explaining: “We always knew we were on a ‘floating schedule’ so might be bumped off at any moment. We’ll keep you posted.
“The main thing for me is the projects are all up and running and I love & salute our army of volunteers who made this possible. Thank you.”
Showing she had taken the decision in her stride, Rice then shared a behind-the-scenes photo of herself alongside camerman Dave Chapman.
In her caption, she quipped that “finding a new home” for the show was her next challenge.
“Hey Dave. We’ve got 24 hours to find a new home. #ChallengeAnneka,” she wrote, follwing which her many fans flooded the reply sections with outraged messages condemning Channel 5’s decision.
When one fan pointed out that Channel 5 were “still trading off the show on their Twitter”, sharing a screenshot of Challenge Anneka appearing on the top of the channel’s official Twitter page, Rice replied: “Hmmmm.”
Find fan repsonses to Challenge Anneka being dropped below.
Crushed beyond words. Thrilled to have you back, LOVED the first episode - the execution right across the board was bang on. This is all about scheduling. Wrong day, wrong time (and yeah probably wrong channel but we’re grateful 5 gave it a go). I’m honestly gutted.
— Tom Selway (@tomselsocial) March 28, 2023
The first episode back was the most uplifting, nostalgic, wonderful TV. It took me back to loving you and the show as a ten year old. You were just as brilliant in this new series. Disgraceful decision to pull the show. So gutted
— Ben🇺🇦 (@educbscott) March 28, 2023
Am absolutely gutted! Loved the reboot, so upbeat, positive and feel good and much needed at this time. Hope you do find a new home. Fingers crossed.
— Juliet Anne (@JulietA75212889) March 28, 2023
It is currently unknown where or when the rebooted Challege Anneka’s final two episodes will air.