ITV's attempt to poach Graham Norton from the BBC has reportedly backfired, with the veteran presenter's new show failing to attract viewers. The 63-year-old host, who has been a BBC staple for decades, launched The Neighbourhood on ITV earlier this year.
Disappointing Ratings
The reality show, where families compete to avoid eviction from a new street, premiered in a prime-time slot after the I'm A Celebrity: All Stars final. However, by its third episode, ratings slumped to just 500,000 viewers. A source described the show as a 'damp squib', potentially jeopardising ITV's hopes of securing Norton permanently.
'It would be a huge coup to tempt Graham away from the BBC with a long-term project,' the source told The Sun. 'They threw everything at The Neighbourhood to make it a big success, but it's ended up a bit of a damp squib.'
Show Format
The Neighbourhood is an 11-part series where families and households engage in a street-sized popularity contest for a £250,000 cash prize. The show aims to turn everyday life into a giant game show, focusing on authentic relationships. Norton, a BAFTA-winning broadcaster, praised the show's wholesome nature: 'One of the loveliest things about the show is seeing households who would never meet in real life forming proper bonds of friendship. There are moments that bring a tear to my eye because it's so genuine.'
Mixed Viewer Reactions
The programme has divided audiences. One viewer wrote on X: 'Oh my goodness it was dreadful. I have a huge capacity for drivel TV but I couldn't stay with this after 15 minutes.' Another accused ITV of copying The Traitors, posting: 'Seems like ITV is trying desperately to make a show that will have the success The Traitors has.' However, some enjoyed it, with a fan asking: 'Am I the only person who's loving #TheNeighbourhood?' Another added: 'I actually really like all the families. This is the type of normal people we want cast on Big Brother.'
A social media user commented: '#Theneighbourhood is gooood, better than Britain's Got Talent. I would put The Neighbourhood on prime time on Saturday.' The Mirror has contacted ITV and Norton's representative for comment.
