Nick Knowles has emotionally revealed that DIY SOS will never return in its current form following the BBC’s decision to shelve the beloved renovation show.
The presenter, who has hosted the show since its inception in 1999, has given more details about the decision, claiming that the BBC told him that, if it does return, it’ll be in a “smaller and more cost-effective” manner.
However, Knowles, 64, expressed doubt that the show can be pulled off in this way, stating: “If you have ever been on DIY SOS – and there are 26,000 of you out there who have – you will know you can't do that smaller. It is what is.”
The visibly upset presenter opened up about the situation on Instagram, calling it “the end of an era” and telling his followers: “This is quite an emotional one for us, obviously, because there is so much doubt and confusion about the future.
“We have been told the programme has been shelved and not ended, but I have asked the question, ‘Will it ever come back in the form it is, where it builds whole houses for people or builds these hospices and charity places?’ and I’ve been told no, if it comes back in the future it will be smaller and more cost-effective.”
He added that he thought he “would be OK” if he was ever informed that the show might come to an end, but has found it “a little bit emotional”.
Knowles called it “the most extraordinary experience”, adding: “I’d like to thank everyone we’ve worked with over the last 26 years. If you’re a volunteer, a tradesperson, if you’re a supplier – love you all. It has been an honour to work with you all. We’ve loved every minute of it.
“There is more work to go on to and to do, but I don’t think it’ll ever be like DIY SOS.”
When the BBC first announced the news, Knowles admitted he was “disappointed” by the news, but said he understood that the BBC had to make “difficult decisions”.
DIY SOS follows a team of experts as they transform the homes of families dealing with illness, bereavement, disability or building nightmares. The final episode of the latest series – the 35th – aired on Tuesday (27 October).
The BBC’s decision to axe the current incarnation of the show comes as it endeavours to save £500m over the next three years. Shows that have been cancelled outright include gameshows Blankety Blank and Celebrity Mastermind, and the stand-up comedy programme Live at the Apollo.
But the DIY SOS news has been met with particular upset – and a Change.org petition urging the corporation to keep the show on air has been signed 43,000 times. Signatories include people who have featured on the show over the last 26 years.
David Claydon, who started the petition, highlighted the show’s status as “a beacon of hope for those struggling in difficult circumstances”.
“In 2025, I had the extraordinary privilege of contributing to a show on the BBC that has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals,” he said. “This wasn’t just another reality TV series. Ending it means turning away from those in need and ignoring the good it brings.”
A BBC spokesperson said last week: “In light of the BBC’s savings challenges we have taken the decision to rest DIY SOS in 2027 and commission a new spin-off show instead from producers South Shore.
“DIY SOS Rebuilt My Life will revisit successes from the show’s past and expand the brand on the BBC in a more cost-effective way next year.”
The Independent has contacted the BBC for additional comment.
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