BBC Three axed: channel to go online-only

BBC Three is to be axed and become an online-only channel, as part of the corporation’s cost-cutting plans.

That means current BBC comedy hits like Uncle, Bad Education, Pramface and Impractical Jokers will soon only be available using the BBC iPlayer, rather than via conventional means.

Media correspondent David Sillito says the BBC is expected to confirm the news tomorrow, but a number of comedians – including Matt Lucas, Jack Whitehall and Russell Kane – have already expressed their concern at the move.

Lucas, who made his big break on BBC Three with Little Britain, said the move would be “really bad for new comedy.”

Jack Whitehall echoed Lucas’ sentiments, tweeting: “I really hope reports that the BBC may kill BBC3 are just rumours. Their support of new comedy in particular is vital.”

And Russell Kane, who hosts a number of programmes on the channel including Live At The Electric, said: “If BBC Theree is really under threat, so is much of the UK’s new comedy.

“This place is the crucible of upcoming comedic artists. Yet again, young people don’t get a proper voice in the cutbacks.”

Since its inception in 2003, BBC Three has been the home of hit new comedy, including Little Britain, Gavin and Stacey and Ideal.