BBC axe plans to reboot beloved quiz show – and it’s bad news for Alison Hammond

Usually everything Alison Hammond touches turns to gold.

But I can reveal a reboot of game show Friends Like These, co-hosted by the This Morning star, has been shelved following a pilot last month.

Alison was set to bring back the Noughties programme alongside Vernon Kay.

But the BBC, who aired the original — hosted by Ant and Dec, and later, Ian Wright — has decided not to pursue a full series.

A TV insider says: “Bringing back Friends Like These seemed a no-brainer but bosses felt it wasn’t the right time, as the light entertainment schedule is just so packed.

“It’s no reflection on either Alison or Vernon, who did a sterling job as hosts. There’s hope it could be reignited further down the line.”

Alison was recently announced as the new host of The Great British Bake Off, taking over from Matt Lucas who is quitting the Channel 4 series in December after three years alongside Noel Fielding.

As well as her Friday slot fronting This Morning with Dermot O’Leary, she co-hosted this year’s Baftas with Richard E Grant.

Since appearing on I’m A Celebrity in 2020, Vernon has enjoyed a career renaissance, hosting ITV series Game Of Talents and appearing as a panelist on the male-only special of Loose Women.

And in February, we revealed the Bolton-born star was taking over from Ken Bruce on Radio 2.

I’m sure neither of them will have to wait long for the next job offer.