CHANNEL Nine has axed Ben Elton Live from Planet Earth after just three episodes, reports Australian TV blog TV Tonight.

A fourth show will not go to air next week.



The live comedy show started out with just 455,000 viewers but dropped to 384,000 last week. Last night a delayed show airing at the later time of 10.40pm against coverage of the New Zealand earthquake managed 189,000.



It follows disappointing reviews for the show which was one of the network’s bold moves and part of its re-branding as "The Home of Comedy".



Elton, whose previous achievements include writing Blackadder and The Young Ones, had stressed the show needed time to develop.

Story: Ben Elton pleads for more time to increase show ratings



Addressing criticism he recently told TV Tonight, “You get no previews, you get no second shots and I think for a first show we did bloody well and if we were a bit rude then fair enough, OK, I’m sorry.”



Nine CEO David Gyngell recently said: “We continue to support local and international comedy, and it’s always better to chance you arm and have a go than to take the safe way out and do nothing.”

Story: Ben Elton's show crashes further in ratings

A Nine spokesperson said: “Ben and his team have done a fantastic job uncovering new Australian talent and we appreciate all of their hard work and dedication.

"We are all very proud of the show but unfortunately it has not found the audience we had hoped for. We thank Ben and all the cast and crew for their commitment and wish them all the best.”



Michael Healy, director of television said: “Comedy is always risky, and live comedy is the riskiest of all. We are pleased to have taken the chance to support the local industry.”



