C4 denies RI:SE to be phased out during war in Iraq

LONDON - Channel 4 has denied speculation that it will use its early morning coverage of the war in Iraq as a way to quietly phase out its ailing breakfast show 'RI:SE', which has had its running time cut in half due to the conflict.

Speculation has suggested that Channel 4 planned to replace 'RI:SE' in the short term with an early morning news programme.

'RI:SE' launched last April as a replacement for 'The Big Breakfast' but failed to attract even the 300,000 viewers its predecessor drew in its last days.

The show was relaunched in January with a new presenting line-up including comedy duo Mel and Sue, and a new studio in central London.

At the end of last month, the show's ratings plummeted to a zero score as its audience dipped below the 100,000 mark. This news was closely followed by reports that Channel 4 had asked several independent production companies to pitch new ideas for the slot.

'RI:SE' usually broadcasts between 6.55am and 9.30am, but currently starts at 8.10am because of early morning war coverage, leading to speculation that it will gradually disappear.

A spokeswoman for the show was adamant that it would return to its normal length as soon as the war was over.

She said: "Several programmes are being moved to make room for war coverage. As soon as the war has finished, 'RI:SE' will go back to its normal slot."

It is widely expected that Channel 4 will axe the show as soon as its contract with the makers of 'RI:SE' -- Princess Productions and Sky -- ends. However, there is no indication of the length of the contract Channel 4 has signed.

The breakfast slot has been a problem for Channel 4 since 'The Big Breakfast' lost its sparkle following the departure of its last star presenter Johnny Vaughan.

'The Big Breakfast' drew 1m viewers at it height when it was fronted by Gabby Roslin and Chris Evans. This success was repeated by the combination of Vaughan and Denise Van Outen.

'RI:SE' is now being beaten in the ratings by Five's 'Noddy' and 'Bear in the Big Blue House', which draws around 400,000 viewers.

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