Axed Channel 5 show returns to air in shock U-turn – but with a brand new name
AN axed Channel 5 reality show is set to make a shock return to screens – under an all-new name.
The programme launched back in November 2023 but only had a short-lived time on air.
Titled Wife on Strike, it saw the spouse that does the most housework – typically a woman – leave the family home.
From that point, the remaining family members were left with all the chores as the show aimed to highlight how much work the absent participants actually do.
Upon its premiere, overnight ratings for Wife on Strike saw the show launch to just 700,000 viewers.
This was far below the broadcaster’s average of approximately one million viewers for its 9pm slot.
As a result, bosses decided to pull the show from the schedule after its second episode.
Just over seven months later, it has been revealed that the format will be returning, albeit with a twist.
Renamed Mums on a Strike, the six-part series will be starting on Sunday, July 21 at 9pm on Channel 5 and My5.
In each episode, two women (but not always) from two different households will step back and walk out on their ungrateful families.
Those left behind must try and get through one week without the family linchpin, while uncovering the real dynamics of the household.
As their ‘strike’ unfolds, the programme follows both sides as they try to adjust to the new set up.
One of the participating families in episode one comprises mum Gaynor (59), dad Paul 58) as well as twin sons Dylan and Devon (16), from Bolton.
Gaynor, who runs a hair salon, said: “80% is me. I do the majority, if not most of the housework. I do need help and support, I’m just running on empty. So I’ve decided I can’t take no more. I’m going on strike.”
The other clan featured in the first episode are Oldham-based mum Sarah (54), dad David (54) and their 16-year-old son, Alfie.
Sarah, who will be the family member taking a step back, revealed: “David’s attitude to housework is: a woman’s work. Simple as that. Typically I do everything in the house. David moves, occasionally, the odd cup, and tells you about it.
“I don’t want to live this life anymore that I’ve been living, cleaning, cooking, wiping everybody’s a**e for them. I don’t want to do it. I want to be me.”
After the original version’s first episode, viewers at home were left divided as one branded it “one-sided”.
Another said: “Not sure I’m going to watch #WifeOnStrike again. It was tedious.”
At the time Wife on Strike was pulled from schedules, a Channel 5 spokesperson told The Sun: “We are fully invested in the series and intend to relaunch with more new episodes in 2024.”
