Channel 4 to scrap Big Fat Gypsy Weddings following racist advertising controversy
Channel 4 is to draw its popular Big Fat Gypsy Weddings format to its conclusion following a series of controversies surrounding its marketing and alleged ‘racism’.
The decision ends speculation on possible subsequent series of the show but the channel still can’t fully let go of the theme – they will be producing six one-off gypsy specials.
Series 1 of the hit show drew audiences of more than 7 million but became embroiled in controversy when the London Gypsy and Traveller Unit claimed that the shows marketing was racist.
This included a “Bigger. Fatter. Gypsier” tagline for the second series of the show which the ASA cleared of breaking advertising rules – although critical of its lack of taste.
Jay Hunt, the networks chief creative officer, said: “It is important to know when to draw the line, and we are close to drawing the line. I think it will come to a point where it is time to move on."