ITV axe huge singing competition starring A-list judges after just two series 

In a major shake up, ITV have axed talent show Starstruck after just two series. 

The music programme, which boasted a celebrity judging panel, was originally lined up to return for another series in 2024 but plans have now been cancelled. 

The star-studded judges, who included Adam Lambert, Shania Twain, Beverley Knight and Jason Manford have reportedly been told there won’t be a third series. 

The show, a reboot of classic programme Stars in Their Eyes which saw contestants impersonate famous singers, was fronted by singer Olly Murs.

Despite the fanfare, it has been completely ‘scrapped’ due to dwindling ratings according to reports.

Axed: The music programme, which boasted a celebrity judging panel, was originally lined up to return for another series in 2024 but plans have now been cancelled

A source told the Daily Star Sunday newspaper: ‘There were plans to film a new series this autumn and air it in 2024, but they have now been scrapped.

‘The top bosses want to try a different show and see how it goes.

‘Starstruck was popular, but it wasn’t as big as shows like Britain’s Got Talent and The Masked Singer, so it was always at risk of being sidelined for something else.’ 

However, there is a possibility that ITV could bring back the music competition format in 2025.

2023 Starstruck winner, teacher Abbie Edwards won the £50,000 cash prize after being named the winning Adele impersonator. 

She went on to beat off fellow hopefuls performing in the final as Sam Smith, Meat Loaf, Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé, Frank Sinatra and Sam Cooke.

After scooping the grand prize, Abbie said: I can’t even put it into words. Seeing my little girl watching her mum. Thank you to everyone who voted for me.’

The show first hit ITV screens back in February 2022 and saw Rachael Hawnt, a Cher impersonator, win the first series.

A-list: The star-studded judges included Adam Lambert, Shania Twain, Beverley Knight and Jason Manford have reportedly been told there won’t be a third series

Host: Fronted by singer Olly Murs the music competition has been completely ‘scrapped’ due to ratings and the ‘top ITV bosses wanting to try a different show’ instead

Presenter Olly previously spoke of how much he enjoyed working on Starstruck.

He told Closer magazine: ‘It’s happy, feel-good Saturday night television. This format works for me because I love music.’

‘I love performing for people and I love entertaining. If the right show comes along then I’ll do it.

‘I’m trying to juggle a lot of things at the moment, but hosting is definitely something I’d like to do more of.’