Why The Chew was cancelled in 2018
The Chew was cancelled in 2018 primarily because of persistent low ratings, high production costs, and conflicts with the food brands that sponsors helped fund the show. After five seasons, ABC chose not to renew the program despite the on-air chemistry among hosts Daphne Oz, Mario Batali, Carla Hall, Michael Symon, and Clinton Kelly.
The following sections explain the measurable factors behind the cancellation, how the hosts transitioned afterward, and what the show’s legacy looks like today.
Measurable performance indicators
Ratings versus broadcast benchmarks
By the 2017–2018 season, The Chew averaged well under 1 million live viewers per episode in Live+Same Day and ranked behind competing lifestyle and news programs in its time slot. Advertisers and affiliates weigh audience size against cost per thousand (CPM) and contribution to local spot revenue, and The Chew struggled to justify its expense given competing programming.
| Metric | Estimated Range (2017–2018) | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Average Live Viewers | Below 1 million per episode | Live+Same Day; behind competing lifestyle shows |
| Household Rating (Live) | Below 0.4 in key demos | Compared to stronger performers in the 12:00–1:00 PM slot |
| Cost per Episode | High production and talent costs | Included multiple cohosts, food preparation, and studio logistics |
| Ad Revenue vs. Cost | Negative contribution margin | Food brand integrations partially offset but not enough to close gap |
Brand conflicts and sponsorship tensions
Because the show was partly underwritten by food partners, hosts sometimes appeared in segments tied to sponsor products. As accountability around paid integrations increased and conflicts of interest concerns grew, ABC and corporate sponsors struggled to align editorial independence with underwriting disclosures. These tensions made long-term renewal less attractive in a climate of stricter ad transparency.
Production and business considerations
Producing 40 to 52 episodes per year across taping, editing, travel, and studio costs required strong margin to break even. By 2018, the combination of shrinking viewership and rising expenses meant the show no longer met ABC’s internal return-on-investment thresholds for renewal.
Host transitions and syndication plans
When cancellation was announced in April 2018, the network confirmed the final episode would air in June, and hosts moved to different roles across ABC and digital platforms. Daphne Oz pursued streaming and podcast projects, Mario Batali continued restaurant work and other TV appearances, Carla Hall focused on cookbook ventures and media, Michael Symon remained active in food television and restaurants, and Clinton Kelly leaned toward consulting and digital content.
Legacy and long-term takeaways
Even with strong peer chemistry and solid digital followings, The Chew shows how ratings, cost structure, and brand alignment can determine whether a daytime talk/lifestyle show is sustainable. The show’s run illustrates the challenges of balancing sponsor support with editorial control in an era where audience expectations around disclosure and authenticity are tightening.
Quick comparison at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation Year | 2018 | ABC official announcement |
| Final Season | Season 5 | Network press release |
| Average Live Viewers (2017–2018) | Below 1 million per episode | Ratings reports |
| Main Hosts | Daphne Oz, Mario Batali, Carla Hall, Michael Symon, Clinton Kelly | ABC show credits |
| Post-cancellation plans | Host projects across digital, publishing, restaurants, and broadcast | Interviews and network statements |
Frequently asked questions
- Were low ratings the only reason for cancellation? Ratings were a primary factor, but production costs and brand conflicts also contributed.
- Did any hosts lose their jobs? Hosts moved to other opportunities; none were abruptly unemployed, though roles changed across ABC and digital platforms.
- Is there any chance of a revival? No official plans for The Chew have been announced; the show remains off-air as of the latest available information.