Comcast Pulls Plug On Gamer-Focused Network G4 TV

According to reports making rounds, Comcast has decided to pull the plug on video game-centric network G4 (also known as G4TV), after unsuccessful attempts to restart the gaming channel last year. The channel debuted on linear cable in 2002 and it lasted until the last studio shows were cancelled in 2012. It was then replaced by the Esquire Network. Up until its decision to shut down, G4 was an American pay television and digital network owned by Comcast Spectacor that primarily focused on video games. The contents studio and network helped in uniting creators and fandoms to celebrate comedy, gaming and popular culture

In an internal memo acquired by Deadline before it was even sent, Dave Scott, the CEO of Comcast’s Spectacor subsidiary, confirmed the channel’s shutdown. In the memo, low viewership as well as a failure to produce sustainable financial returns were cited as possible reasons for closure.

Several G4 employees who were active on Twitter claim that before they heard directly from Scott, they first learned about the shutdown from press reports and tweets. According to Scott’s personal statements, “This is certainly not what we hoped for, and, as a result, we have made the very difficult decision to discontinue G4’s operations, effective immediately.”

Last year, G4 made a comeback on a number of networks, including Comcast/Xfinity, Verizon Fios, Cox, and Philo to name a few. In an effort to appeal to the nostalgia of fans who tuned onto the network two decades ago, it debuted with programs like Attack of the Show, Xplay, and Ninja Warrior. The business also had a long-term contract with Twitch, where it occasionally held streams before switching to conventional television.

In order to “discuss other alternative opportunities that may be available,” Scott continues, the company’s human resources department will be in touch with members of the G4 team.