The BBC has axed the chart-topping drama after just one series – and the show’s boss paid tribute to fans in a statement.
Champion launched last year on the Beeb to rave reviews from fans with a strong diverse cast.
4
The BBC took the drama off the top of the charts after just one seriesCredit: BBC
4
Champion was dropped by the broadcaster despite rave reviews from fans Credit: BBC
4
Champion was the first TV project of Candice Carty-Williams, author of The Sunday Times bestseller QueenieCredit: BBC
The series told the explosive story of what happens when fame and family collide.
Deja Bowens made her TV debut in the musical series, alongside Malcolm Kamulete (Top Boy, Ill Manors) and music artist Ray BLK (also making her TV debut).
Champion was the first TV project of Candice Carty-Williams, author of The Sunday Times bestseller Queenie.
However, the series was abruptly ended after just one series, leaving fans devastated.
In an emotional statement confirming her axing, Candice announced: “The good news is that Champion was watched – I’ve seen the numbers now – millions of you, it was in the top 10 in so many majority black countries, it was the number one Netflix show on Jamaica, Guadeloupe and Martinique(!) and received a majority of 5 stars in all segments…
“Champion was for us and with us, and it was a success! It reached so many of us at home and around the world. Thanks to the BBC and Netflix for doing this…
“The SAD news is that Champion won’t be coming back. I’m grateful to everyone who watched the series, wrote about it, listened to the soundtrack, yelled at me in the street because the soundtrack wasn’t available outside the UK (we’re working on it), DMd about their favorites characters; yes I know about #JusticeForLennox, Beres is evil, the songs, the moments and he threatened me for the second season…”
She concluded: “A big eternal and endless thank you to the cast and crew for bringing this story and these characters to life.
“I didn’t plan to write or show a second season because there are other things that need to be done, but I wanted to leave you with something because I believe certain chapters need to be properly closed.”
The Champion was broadcast last year on BBC One but fell victim to a scheduling shake-up during the broadcast.
Saturday Kitchen viewers in tears as BBC show pays tribute to late Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers
It has been moved from its regular slot of 9.15pm to make room for ongoing coverage of Wimbledon.
4
The series told the explosive story of what happens when fame and family collideCredit: BBC
Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: HIS Education