News Broadcasting
ABC looking to do ‘Extreme Makeover’ on NBC’s ‘Friends’
MUMBAI: This is a programme initiative that gives the word competition a new meaning. On 6 May the final episode of Friends airs in the US on NBC. Looking to counter the same is Disney’s ABC with a special edition of its reality show Extreme Makeover.
ABC will alter its traditional programming format so that during every commercial break of the Friends finale, there will be live action of its show.
In the show the interior and exterior of a New York home will be recreated. The working title of the episode is Friends Helping Friends.
ABC Entertainment alternative series and specials senior VP Andrea Wong has been quoted as saying, “When you take on giants you have to at least offer a fun alternative. Friends is a huge event, but were willing to bet that there are more than a few people who will stick with Home Makeover if they catch just even a few minutes during an NBC commercial break.”
On the show there will be no hesitation to tear down walls, reconstruct rooms, rewire an entire electrical system or replace old plumbing, if the job calls for it. The ABC team claims that it is committed to adding style and design, regardless of the time frame.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
