Comcast has decided to pull the plug on G4. The news comes after the network sought to make a comeback last year. News of G4’s planned revival was first announced at 2020’s virtual San Diego Comic-Con. G4 managed to become a huge part of gaming culture in the 2000s but was ultimately shut down in 2014.
Those employed at G4 were informed of Comcast’s decision in a memo sent out by Spectacor CEO Dave Scott. The CEO explained that, unfortunately, the network failed to gain the necessary traction to turn a profit on the revival thanks to low viewership. G4’s operations are to be discontinued effective immediately. Per Scott, those still employed with G4, would be able to reach out to human resources for support and other opportunities that “may be available.”
While G4 was huge during the 2000s, the attempt to revive the network saw a much smaller version that was less focused on “traditional linear TV.” The revival did include new versions of its mainstay programs like Attack of the Show! and Xplay, but neither managed to gain enough viewership to keep viewers interested.
The original G4 first began in 2002 while under co-owners NBCUniversal and Dish Network. It was developed as a successor to MTV, with its focus on youth culture. Unfortunately, it was canceled in 2014, with Esquire Network, taking its place for a short time.
Source: Deadline.
