Blackadder was nearly axed after its first season because BBC didn't realise potential, says producer By Dolly Busby For The Daily Mail Published: 22:13 BST, 4 July 2024 | Updated: 22:18 BST, 4 July 2024 e-mail View comments Blackadder was nearly cancelled after its first season because the BBC didn't realise its potential, it was claimed yesterday. The show's producer John Lloyd urged TV bosses to give more series a second chance, arguing creative programmes rarely 'get it right first time'. Mr Lloyd, who also worked on Spitting Image and Not The Nine O'Clock News, said broadcasters had become too afraid to say 'have another go' – instead binning shows that aren't an immediate hit.
Mr Lloyd, 72, revealed Blackadder's budget was cut 'to the bones' to avoid it being scrapped. The first series won an international Emmy but the second was briefly cancelled by Michael Grade – then BBC One controller – who said it had not attracted enough domestic viewers. Blackadder was nearly cancelled after its first season because the BBC didn't realise its potential, a study has revealed The show's producer John Lloyd urged TV bosses to give more series a second chance But the BBC boss was convinced to give the show a second chance after costs were stripped back.
Mr Lloyd said more TV chiefs should allow creators the chance to make such tweaks. He said: 'Michael Grade was going through the figures and said 'I've seen it, I know it won an Emmy and everything but I didn't think it was ver.
