National Lottery Live is axed

25 November 2016

'The National Lottery Live' has been axed.

Nick Knowles

The BBC have decided to pull the plug on the live draw, which they've aired on the small screen since 1994, from televisions from January 7, 2017, as the broadcaster has struck up a new three-year deal with Lotto operator Camelot to move the show, which allows viewers to watch to see if their numbers come up, to a digital platform.

Camelot's digital director Tim Copper said: "We're delighted to have signed this contract extension, maintaining the strong relationship that has flourished between 'The National Lottery' and the BBC since 'The National Lottery's launch 22 years ago.

"As consumer habits show an unrelenting shift towards digital platforms, we're embracing these changes in players' results-checking habits - providing content that they can access at all times, across multiple different touch-points.

"But it's also great that we can continue to provide a service to those loyal BBC1 viewers who want their lottery results available at a regular time as they enjoy their favourite BBC shows. This new deal will allow us to do both."

The big move means players, who take part in the game from next year, will need to check iPlayer or the bulletins, which will air after the news on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, to find out whether they have become millionaires.

Charlotte Moore, the director of BBC content, said: "This new deal reaffirms the BBC's commitment to 'The National Lottery' and our ongoing relationship with Camelot.

"We both recognise the need to provide audiences with more ways to access the draw results across a range of platforms that reflect changing behaviour, while importantly retaining a home on BBC1 and continuing our support for the tremendous work they do through the Annual Awards show."

'The National Lottery Live' - which includes the Lotto and Thunderball draws - is currently hosted by Gaby Roslin, while Nick Knowles presents the show's spin offs 'Who Dares Wins', 'Break the Safe' and '5-Star Family Reunion'.