We knew the writing was on the wall for some time, and shows like Attack of the Show and X-Play were doomed as a result, but as of this April, G4 will be no more.
NBC Universal confirmed today that, as of April 22nd, the geek network will cease to be, replaced instead by The Esquire Network. Described as an “upscale Bravo for men”, the network will try to draw in sophisticated audiences. So, no more reruns of Cheaters, perhaps.
Two shows have already been announced for the network, but, unfortunately, don’t sound very man-like at all. The first is “The Getaway”, and instead of being a cool show revolving around car chases, it’s a celebrity travel show. The second, “Knife Fight”, also sounds promising at first, but doesn’t even involve knife fighting. It’s a cooking show where chefs compete against one another.
Oh, and former G4 viewers were also insulted when Bonnie Hammer, an NBC cable executive, stated, “Realistically, guys who are into gaming are not necessarily watching television.” Notice there was no mention of women…or the awesomeness that is Adult Swim.
You will be missed, G4. Especially if Esquire Network doesn’t get programming that’s better than, well, “Knife Fight”.
