ITV has put the cookery show "Weekend Kitchen," co-hosted by Lisa Faulkner and John Torode, on hold, citing budget reductions. The popular Sunday program, which has completed 10 series, will not be featured in the upcoming ITV schedule. This decision comes amidst broader budgetary adjustments by the broadcaster.
An insider indicated that while there are no current plans for an eleventh series, a final decision on the show's future has not been made. The source also emphasized Torode's continued role as a regular chef on ITV's "This Morning," stating he remains "very much a part of the ITV family."
This professional setback for Faulkner and Torode follows Faulkner's recent announcement that she has undergone treatment for early-stage breast cancer. The 54-year-old TV chef revealed on Instagram that she had surgery two weeks prior to remove the cancer, with subsequent results indicating that "everything's out" and it is "all clear." She is scheduled to undergo a course of radiotherapy in the coming weeks. Faulkner shared her experience to encourage others to attend mammograms, crediting the screening for the early detection of her cancer.
Faulkner's daughter, Billie Coghill, expressed support on social media, calling her mother an "absolute inspiration." Several other public figures also shared well wishes following Faulkner's announcement.
Breast cancer is a significant health concern, with over 55,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the UK and an estimated 1.4 million people expected to be living with the disease by 2050. In the US, it affects approximately 266,000 people each year. Experts are increasingly concerned about a rise in early-onset breast cancer, particularly in women under 50, with modern lifestyles being explored as potential contributing factors. While the exact cause of cancer remains unclear, genetic factors and lifestyle choices are considered among the risk factors.