Telly flop for high flier Rachel Riley as ITV show ‘It’s not rocket science’ stalls
Countdown beauty finds fronting prime-time TV even more challenging than quadratic equations
RACHEL RILEY may have no problem with quadratic equations – but fronting a prime-time ITV show has proved a tougher task.
The Countdown star’s science programme It’s Not Rocket Science appears to have gone up in smoke after disappointing viewing figures for its debut series earlier this year.
Now ITV is on the verge of ditching it and a source said: “It’s Not Rocket Science was billed as the Top Gear of science, but it’s gone the way of the CHRIS EVANS version.
“Given its place on a primetime slot, the ratings were seriously disappointing.
“ITV is now exploring other options which will take priority over another series.”
The show, which Rachel co-hosted with ROMESH RANGANATHAN and BEN MILLER, began in February and its six episodes averaged 1.8million viewers.
Rocket Science had elaborate stunts and experiments, such as Rachel zipwiring through fire.
But many items were considered too basic for viewers who may be used to more death-defying acts on such shows as Britain’s Got Talent.
If the show were to be revived, it could be moved to an earlier time to attract a younger audience.
An ITV spokesman said: “No decisions have been made on a second series as yet.”
Rachel joined Countdown in 2009 and has proved a big hit alongside host NICK HEWER. It led to another co-hosting gig on Channel 5’s The Gadget Show and an appearance on Strictly — where she began dating dance partner PASHA KOVALEV.
So despite this latest blow, the maths whizz’s telly days certainly aren’t numbered.
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