A Farewell To G4
Image Source: The Wrap
For those who carry nostalgia for G4, while it is disappointing to see it go once and for all, it's not that surprising. Back in 2002, a former president of Walt Disney Television by the name of Charles Hirschhorn created G4, with high hopes of hooking gamers and internet-dwellers alike. It showcased the idea of making unconventional advertising more entertaining, matching the humor of early internet culture and video game fandom. To many viewers, it was a breath of fresh air to see their interests hit the mainstream airwaves, since it was not as common back then.
Unfortunately, the parent company, Comcast, continually cut costs on the channel's lineup, eventually leading to its initial end back in 2014. All hope was not lost, as it sought a revival in 2021. Included with the relaunch was the promise to bring back new, original productions of Attack of the Show and X-Play, as well as allowing timeslots for the famed internet personality Scott the Woz to be aired. Interest among old fans was reignited.
RELATED:
Image Source: Hollywood Reporter
Alas, the high reception of returning to the spotlight was very short-lived, as audience attentiveness was not as profitable as expected. Comcast Spectacor announced its plans to cease G4 operations on October 16, 2022. CEO Scott Dave released the following memo to employees:
"Team: As you know, G4 was re-introduced last year to tap into the popularity of gaming. We invested to create the new G4 as an online and TV destination for fans to be entertained, be inspired, and connect with gaming content. Over the past several months, we worked hard to generate that interest in G4, but viewership is low and the network has not achieved sustainable financial results. This is certainly not what we hoped for, and, as a result, we have made the very difficult decision to discontinue G4’s operations, effective immediately. I know this is disappointing news, and I’m disappointed, too. I want to thank you and everyone on the G4 team for the hard work and commitment to the network. Our human resources team is reaching out to you to provide you with support, discuss other opportunities that may be available, and answer any questions you may have."
Recently, on November 18, 2022, G4 was officially discontinued, merely two days after the anniversary of its relaunch. For many, it is hard to see it go, as it was one of the earlier influences that TV had over video game and general nerd culture. Intermingling humor with news about video games and the early age of the internet into their programming helped cement its foothold in mainstream media and acted as the main appeal to audiences. Even if G4 suffered under the constant switching of leadership positions and the inevitable setbacks that come from mergers and funding cuts, it was clear that there was passion behind all of their projects.
G4 may have been short-lived in its rerun, but many fans will never forget its impact, and for that, we say: thank you, and farewell.
READ NEXT:
Source: Wikipedia
Latest News
Featured
