Another nail in reality TV’s coffin? Popular series AXED by Seven – but it could be saved by rival network

SAS Australia will not be returning to screens in 2024.

Despite Channel Seven announcing the continuation of the series earlier this year, Daily Mail Australia can reveal that the fifth season has not been commissioned.

The previous season, filmed in the rugged landscapes of Jordan, followed the show’s tradition of challenging locations, including the Snowy Mountains, Capertee Valley, and Blue Mountains in NSW.

Given the scale of production, a new season would typically need to be well-advanced by now to make it to screens before the end of the year. 

Sources at Screentime, the production company behind SAS Australia, disclosed that initial casting discussions took place for the upcoming series.

Despite Channel Seven announcing the continuation of the series earlier this year, Daily Mail Australia can reveal that the fifth season has not been commissioned

However, negotiations between Channel Seven and Screentime fizzled out, leaving the show’s future uncertain.

According to a well-placed insider, rival network Channel Nine has since expressed interest in commissioning the series for next year.

‘Channel Nine have shown interest in picking up the show for 2025,’ the source added. 

The previous season, filmed in the rugged landscapes of Jordan, followed the show’s tradition of challenging locations, including the Snowy Mountains, Capertee Valley, and Blue Mountains in NSW

Given the scale of production, a new season would typically need to be well-advanced by now to make it to screens before the end of the year

The decision to axe the show comes as a shock to many, particularly given the strong performance of the 2023 finale, which drew in 1.85 million viewers across Australia and on Seven’s streaming apps.

The popularity of the show and its loyal fan base make the cancellation all the more unexpected.

SAS instructor and host Ant Middleton will next return to screens for Seven’s Dancing with the Stars.

It is understood that Middleton surprised many with his competitive spirit in the dance contest, adding another layer to his dynamic television persona.

Channel Seven has been approached for comment. 

Sources at Screentime, the production company behind SAS Australia, disclosed that initial casting discussions took place for the upcoming series. (Ant pictured at the Seven upfronts in October last year)