Mediaworks has confirmed it is reviewing TV3's current affairs show Campbell Live.
John Campbell Photo: TV3 / Facebook
The news comes a fortnight after the show celebrated its tenth anniversary, and Mediaworks says it is reviewing the commercial opportunities of the 7pm time slot on TV3.
The head of news and current affairs Mark Jennings said the review was part of the broader review of the MediaWorks business.
Mr Jennings said it was not a reflection on the quality of the programme, or the work of John Campbell or any of the journalists or producers in the Campbell Live team.
The news was met with widespread outrage on social media.
The axing of @CampbellLiveNZ is the desire of the Govt. Investigative journalism isn't popular with them & Campbell digs deeper than others.
— Kim Dotcom (@KimDotcom) April 9, 2015
Last shred of responsible television to be “reviewed” while idiocy, sycophancy and vacuity is promoted & celebrated http://t.co/MPRski7Bct
— Hamish Keith (@hamish_keith) April 9, 2015
Ask some Christchurchians how they feel about Campbell Live being threatened, & tell me that decent TV journalism doesn't make a difference.
— James A. Robins (@James_ARobins) April 9, 2015
But John Campbell did not have much to say on the matter, only to advise viewers to watch his show tonight.
Thank you all so much for your support. Please watch tonight.
— Campbell Live (@CampbellLiveNZ) April 9, 2015
Despite some reports that the show would be replaced by Jono and Ben, the pair denied any knowledge of this.
We've read that we're rumoured to replace @CampbellLiveNZ.Just want to say to say on record this is honestly the first we've heard of this.
— Jono and Ben (@JonoAndBen) April 9, 2015
Mediaworks justified their decision saying viewer expectations in 2015 were quite different from those of 2005.
A timeframe had not been set but a period of consultation with all staff who work on Campbell Live was now underway.
Thinking of all our mates at Campbell live and remember the support you gave us, hang in there you have so much to be proud of
— MARK SAINSBURY (@SAINSO) April 9, 2015
John, you look, sound and feel marvelous tonight. Much love. @JohnJCampbell
— Alison Mau (@Alisonmau) April 9, 2015
