In a significant move for its prime-time schedule, the BBC has confirmed that popular presenter Stacey Solomon is stepping back from her hit reality television programme.
Reality Show Paused Indefinitely
Stacey Solomon has decided to put her BBC documentary series, Stacey & Joe, on hold for the foreseeable future. The show, which she fronts with her husband Joe Swash, offered viewers an intimate look into their family life at Pickle Cottage.
The series proved to be a major success, with its debut episode this year pulling in an audience of more than four million viewers. This strong performance led to the swift commissioning of a second series. The decision to pause production was confirmed to Express.co.uk by Solomon's representative on 23 December 2025.
A spokesperson stated: "Stacey is taking a break from her reality TV work." They added, "Stacey and her family love filming the show and hope it will return at some point and are very grateful for the support they've been shown by the production company and broadcaster."
BBC Faces a Series of Setbacks
Solomon's departure from her reality TV duties represents a considerable blow for the broadcaster, which views her as one of its most valuable on-screen talents. However, this is not the only headache for the corporation as it navigates a tricky period.
The BBC recently found itself dealing with controversy surrounding an episode of Would I Lie to You? featuring comedian David Walliams. It was reported that Walliams performed two Nazi salutes during filming, an act which left the studio audience stunned.
In response, the BBC issued an apology and removed the contentious scene from the final broadcast. This incident followed news that Walliams had been dropped by his publishers over separate allegations of inappropriate behaviour, which he denies.
Viewing Figures Add to Concerns
Further compounding the broadcaster's challenges, another of its flagship programmes has experienced a sharp decline in viewers. Celebrity MasterChef has lost nearly a third of its audience within a year, with its latest series struggling to exceed 1.3 million viewers.
The first episode of the current season, which aired on 17 November, failed to rank in Barb's Top 50 programmes of the week, highlighting the scale of the ratings drop.
Despite the hiatus for Stacey & Joe, fans of Stacey Solomon will still be able to see her on screen. Her other BBC programme, Sort Your Life Out, is reported to be continuing as planned.
