After only three weeks on the air, Channel Nine has axed Ben Elton’s new show: Live From Planet Earth.
Originally commissioned for six episodes, the variety show's debut had an average national audience of 455,000 viewers in the mainland capitals, however this fell to just 384,000 in its second week. Early figures reveal Tuesday night's show had an average of about 200,000.
Nine’s director of television Michael Healy said comedy was always risky, admitting live comedy was the riskiest of all.
“We are pleased to have taken the chance to support the local industry,” Healy said in a statement.
Furthermore, a Nine spokesman said in a statement the network was proud of the show – produced by FremantleMedia Australia – but it was unfortunate it didn’t find the audience they had hoped for.
The London-born, Perth-based comedian is best known for his work on The Young Ones and Blackadder.