Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

As someone who has spent a significant portion of my career in media, I can only imagine the disappointment and frustration Steph McGovern must have felt when she received the news that Channel 4 would not be renewing her show, Steph’s Packed Lunch. After all, she had built a loyal audience over three years, and they had come to love her unique style and warmth on their screens every day from 12:00-14:00.


Steph McGovern has revealed her plans for a fresh professional direction following the cancellation of her Channel 4 daily program Steph’s Packed Lunch in the previous year.

After three years on the air, Channel 4’s program was cancelled due to a series of terminations. Reports suggest that the broadcaster was struggling financially and attempting to reduce expenses.

Instead, the 42-year-old TV show host has chosen to leave the spotlight behind and embark on a fresh endeavor by penning a novel.

Based on The Sun’s report, Steph shared at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, that the concept for “Deadline” has been with her since her breakfast TV beginnings.

She remarked: “Writing this has allowed me to concealably inhabit an alternate reality for the past few years. In these hidden worlds, I’ve experienced the intense work environments and met intriguing individuals, which have all contributed to crafting my own gripping tale of power, deceit, and corruption.”

Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

‘I’m buzzing to be launching the book at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival.’ 

For the past decade, I’ve regularly visited this place to follow my beloved writers. It’s hard to believe that I’m now a writer joining their ranks – what a surreal experience!

Deadline is set to be published in July next year by Pan Fiction. 

After Steph wiped away her tears, she said goodbye for the last time to her show Steph’s Packed Lunch during its finale in December of the previous year.

Towards the close of the program, Steph shared a light-hearted moment with viewers by looking directly into the camera and remarking, “We’ve truly enjoyed making this show.”

I’m grateful for each of you sharing your personal experiences with us and becoming valuable members of our unique community. As we come to a close today, I believe it would be heartwarming and enriching to reminisce about the memories we’ve created together. Let’s take a journey back in time.

She then played a montage of some of the show’s best moments over three years on the small screen.

In a heartfelt address to her team, Steph began the episode by acknowledging their final gathering, “We’re all here today as it’s our last show, making this a true family event.”

Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

I’m glad you could join us today, and a warm welcome to those tuning in from home! I’ve enjoyed hosting this program, especially since it’s based up north. It’s been a pleasure showcasing the abundance of creative talents and offerings that the northern region holds.

Live reporting from Leeds these past days has been an awe-inspiring experience. We’ve delved into the topic of the north-south divide, debated its existence and implications on employment, transportation, and wealth. Given that most discussions tend to be centered around London, today I wish to acknowledge and honor the north.

At the close of March 2020, Steph began airing her Packed Lunch program directly from her living room as she presented it, due to the lockdown restrictions.

When Steph initially shared her program, formerly known as The Steph Show, from her home, I was among the approximately 182,000 viewers who tuned in, according to Metro’s report.

On September 14, 2020, the show reportedly attracted an average of 93,000 viewers on its debut day according to records from the studio.

In October, it was announced that Channel 4 would not be renewing the show for a new season and planned to conclude it in December instead.

Due to the rapid evolution of viewing habits among audiences, it is essential for us to choose wisely which shows to support as part of our digital-focused approach. Regrettably, we have opted not to renew the contract for Steph’s Packed Lunch when it expires in December 2023.

Our dedication to enhancing the TV industry beyond London and achieving a 50% origination rate outside of the capital remains unwavering.

“We will be shifting the funds that were earmarked for Steph’s Packed Lunch to support productions in other nations and regions instead.”

Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch
Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

A representative from the production company, Expectation and Can Can, shared with TopMob: “We’ve enjoyed an amazing three-year journey producing Steph’s Packed Lunch with the charismatic Steph McGovern and her exceptional co-stars. Sadly, despite growing a devoted viewership, we won’t be able to continue bringing laughter to Channel 4 from 12-2.”

Four years ago, Leeds lacked a vibrant television scene, and I feel truly honored to have led a team that has evolved into one of the most brilliant and innovative groups of TV producers in the United Kingdom.

Steph’s Packed Lunch did struggle in the ratings for some of its run. 

Based on The Sun’s report, viewership for the program reached an all-time low during September 2020. At exactly 12:56pm, no individuals were recorded as watching that particular episode according to the official ratings data.

In response, a spokesperson insisted the show averaged 87,000 viewers from 12.30pm-2.10pm.

The program, making its premiere in March 2020 at Leeds Dock, was aired live and encompassed elements such as celebrity chats and news updates.

Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch
Steph McGovern reveals unexpected career change after Channel 4 AXED her chat show Packed Lunch

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2024-07-20 23:04

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