The broadcaster has confirmed three well-known television programmes are being discontinued as part of a major efficiency drive.

Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live at the Apollo have been cut as the corporation seeks to achieve £500 million in savings over the next three years.

The move comes amid persistent financial pressures and forms part of the initial phase of broader cost reduction plans.

A BBC spokesperson stated they take immense pride in all three much-cherished programmes and expressed gratitude to everyone involved, both on-screen and behind the scenes, for creating such enduring success over many years.

However, difficult decisions have become necessary given funding challenges, with these savings identified from the entertainment genre.

The standard Mastermind format, fronted by Clive Myrie, will remain on air, while both Celebrity Mastermind and Live at the Apollo will broadcast one final series before ending.

The corporation has affirmed its commitment to commissioning ambitious entertainment content and supporting comedic talent, including through new digital initiatives focused on stand-up comedy and emerging performers.

These reductions align with BBC Content’s objective to deliver at least £100 million in recurring annual savings, resulting in a reduction of 100 to 150 hours of original television programming across all genres by the end of 2027-28.

Further announcements regarding savings within the Content division are anticipated in the coming months.

BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty has announced her departure from the morning programme after 17 years.

The television presenter first joined the show in 2009 but will leave in December to take up a new position as co-presenter of 5 Live Breakfast in 2027.

Munchetty stated she is delighted to be joining 5 Live Breakfast in January, explaining that live news, engaging conversations and connecting with audiences represent what she finds most fulfilling about broadcasting, and 5 Live excels in all these areas.

Presenting a flagship programme on 5 Live represents an opportunity simply too good to decline, she noted.

The role will demand considerable effort and require her complete focus and energy, and she is eager to throw herself fully into the position.

Her appointment follows confirmation that existing 5 Live Breakfast presenters Rick Edwards and Rachel Burden will step down in December.