Douglas is Cancelled viewers ‘give up’ after just one episode of new ITV drama as they brand it ‘a dire rip off’

ITV's new drama Douglas is Cancelled has left viewers divided, with many switching off and publicly slamming the show.

The four-part series was written by Steven Moffat, the creator of British cult classics Doctor Who and Sherlock.

Lead actor Hugh Bonneville plays Douglas Bellowes, a well-respected news anchor on the fictional program Live at Six, alongside Madeline Crow (Karen Gillan).

The drama kicks off when Douglas finds himself in hot water after an anonymous social media account claims he made a sexist joke at a wedding.

The show follows Douglas and his team as they try to navigate the scandal.

In a heated discussion with his producer Toby (Ben Miles), Douglas is sternly reminded that maintaining a public profile without scandal means being "balanced, boring, and bland."

Ironically, this sentiment seems to reflect viewers' feelings towards the series itself.

Many took to social media to express their disappointment, with some deciding not to watch beyond the first episode.

One furious viewer tweeted: "Gave up on Douglas Is Cancelled after less than two episodes. The script is infuriating and frustrating, the acting is childlike, overdone and caricature.

"Switched off at the ‘hand-holding’ scene in Madeleine’s office. Awful and ridiculous."

Another commented: "Predictable script, full of clichés and not even amusing."

A third added: "A dire rip off of The Morning Show. His agent's character was utterly ridiculous and foolish.

"Is it a drama? A comedy drama? A comedy? What? And far too many adverts to be watchable."

The Morning Show is an American TV series made with Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Anniston that also addresses how male news anchors deal with allegations of misconduct in the work place.

Despite the backlash, some fans appreciated the show's attempt to tackle contemporary issues within the media industry.

One person shared: "Absorbed all 4 episodes of Douglas Is Cancelled this evening. Moffat at his sassy and witty best."

Another chimed in: "I watched all of Douglas is Cancelled on ITVX earlier today as I just couldn’t wait to see it and I was pleased with what I viewed.

"Hugh Bonneville and Karen Gillan sparkle with on-screen chemistry. Incredibly well cast show & well written Steven Moffat."