Davidson quits game show

Jim Davidson is quitting BBC1's ailing Generation Game to work on a new sitcom.

The comic will quit the game show when the current run ends next month after seven series as host.

Audience figures have recently slumped to below 3.5 million - down from 19million in its Bruce Forsyth heyday - as it lost heavily to Pop Idol.

The show will return next year with a new presenter and revamped format.

Davidson is now working on a family sitcom for BBC1 with Carla Lane, who wrote The Liver Birds and Bread.

His stand-up show will also be returning to TV.

"I've had a fantastic time but after seven years I feel that now is the right time for some new challenges," he said. "As soon as my current tour comes to an end I'll be packing thermals for my trip to the Falklands and on my return it will be straight into work on my first sitcom in 12 years."

Published: 21 Mar 2002