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Veteran broadcaster Noel Edmonds has suffered a blow in his bid for a television comeback as ITV has decided not to renew his latest series, Noel Edmonds’ Kiwi Adventure.
The three-part documentary, which aired in June, chronicled Edmonds’ idyllic, and occasionally eccentric, new life in rural New Zealand, but despite a warm reception, the viewing figures failed to deliver the goods.
Airing in a prime-time slot, the show attracted between 1 to 1.5 million viewers per episode. While those numbers might seem respectable, insiders say ITV was banking on significantly higher ratings to justify future episodes.
“It’s a blow to Noel as he was convinced, he was on to a winning idea,” a TV insider revealed. “There was a great buzz around the series and it was well received by both viewers and critics alike. But it needed big numbers to spark a follow-up, and those just didn’t materialise.”
Noel Edmonds’ Kiwi Adventure gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at the 75-year-old’s life after stepping back from the UK spotlight. The series documented Edmonds and his wife Liz’s attempts to transform their sprawling River Haven estate, complete with its own vineyard, pub, and wellness centre, into a thriving hub for locals and tourists alike.
Noel Edmonds’ Kiwi Adventure has been axed by ITV - Credit: PA
At times compared to Jeremy Clarkson’s Clarkson’s Farm, Edmonds’ series brought his trademark blend of charm and quirkiness to the screen, showcasing not just his new ventures but his long-standing interest in holistic living, including crystal healing and alternative therapies.
Despite the show’s niche appeal, some critics praised its authenticity and Edmonds’ evident enthusiasm for his new lifestyle. However, the relatively modest viewership wasn’t the only factor in ITV’s decision. Sources close to the broadcaster claim that logistical challenges and unpredictable New Zealand weather also played a role.
One insider said: “Filming was a nightmare at times. Heavy rainfall and travel issues made it hard to capture what the team really wanted. That, combined with budget concerns and the underwhelming figures, meant ITV had to make a tough call.”
A spokesperson for Edmonds confirmed that he was disappointed but still proud of the show and remains committed to his Kiwi adventure off-screen.
Fans of the former Deal or No Deal host needn’t despair entirely, as industry whispers suggest Edmonds is exploring other projects, both in New Zealand and the UK, with a renewed focus on digital platforms where niche content can thrive without the pressure of traditional broadcast ratings.
So, what’s next for Noel?
While the curtain may have come down on his Kiwi escapade, Edmonds remains as unpredictable and inventive as ever. Whether it’s another wellness project, a return to mainstream TV, or a leap into streaming, one thing’s for certain: Noel Edmonds is far from finished.
