Longtime running music show Top Of The Pops is being axed by BBC1 this year. This is the first move of the classic show since it went on air in 1964, and it will be moving to a less high-profile slot on Sunday nights on BBC2. The show’s audience has slipped in recent years, and despite a revamp, still attracts a reported three million viewers.
BBC2 controller, Roly Keating told NME: “We want to make it bigger and better so that it becomes the ultimate pop music show for music lovers of every generation. BBC2 has a strong heritage in pop music and performance programs, from Jools Holland to Glastonbury, so Top of the Pops will have a natural home on the channel. The addition of Top Of The Pops will also extend BBC2’s offering to younger viewers.”
Lorraine Heggessey, controller of BBC1, added: “Top Of The Pops has enjoyed a great life on BBC1 and the production team have done a wonderful job with the series. I believe they will find new fans for pop music with Top Of The Pops in its new home. BBC1 will continue to support popular music with high profile specials from leading artists – and showcase new musical talent in programs such as Friday Night with Jonathan Ross.”
The new format will combine classic archive performances with current chart acts to appeal to a wide range of music lovers.
Check out Top Of The Pops for more information.
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