News Broadcasting
Johar’s first cuppa ups ratings on StarOne
MUMBAI: Karan Johar’s candid talk show Koffee with Karan has done the deed for StarOne by clocking more than double the ratings in its second season with 1.6 TVR as opposed to 0.74 TVR in its last season (2004) across five metros Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bangalore (Tam TG-CS, 4yrs+, SEC A).
The launch episode simulcast on StarOne and Star World which featured Johar’s favourite trio Shah Rukh, Kajol and Rani drew in over 5.5 million eyeballs across the country with the reach on Star One being 5.04 million and Star World 0.66 million (TG-All India, CS 4yrs+).
Tam’s elite panel data has thrown up even more refreshing news for the Star network, as the opening episodes of Koffee with Karan on StarOne received 4.2 TVR (TG-CS 4yrs+, SEC A1, Mumbai and Delhi). The shift to StarOne appears to have been a wise move by the network as the recent numbers that the show has belched up are encouraging.
Similarly, the simulcast rating on Star World got 1.4 TVR, but this again is specific to the Mumbai and Delhi Elite dominated Elite panel data.
Commenting on the response that premiere episode of the second season, Star India Entertainment Ltd EVP marketing Ajay Vidyasagar, says, “Koffee with Karan has been one of the most popular talk shows that has just the right mix of fun and excitement coupled with Karan’s own unique style. We are delighted that the launch episode of Koffee with Karan on Star One and Star World has been a smashing hit with the opening episode TRPs having doubled over the last season.”
In his jovial and witty persona Johar said, “We promised to serve our coffee hot but I am glad to see that the response is steaming!”
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.
