Comcast pulls the plug from the player-centric G4 network just a year after its relaunch

Comcast has announced that they are pulling the plug from their gaming-focused network G4 TV, the first incarnation of which in the 2000s remains a cultural milestone for many millennials. The news comes just a year after its relaunch. In a memo to all employees, Spectacor CEO Dave Scott explained that the company’s investments and efforts to revive the network were unsuccessful.

A few dozen employees and contract workers are affected by the closure. Comcast said it will help them with relocation and will consider some for internal opportunities.

The network scheduling list included a revived version of the original G4 pillars Attack of the show! And Xplaymore comedy EnhancedJapanese competition series ninja warrior, esports competitions and Dungeons & Dragons limited series. In addition to posting content on YouTube and social media, G4 has a multi-year agreement with Twitch and pay-TV distribution agreements with Verizon FiOS, Cox, Xfinity TV, and Philo.

Spectacor’s core business is sporting and live events, with the division owning the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and their home arena, the Wells Fargo Center, along with numerous other resources. The achievements of G4 have never been particularly important to Spectacor, but the division has avidly pursued esports, making the revival of G4 a logical thing to attempt.

Here’s Scott’s full memo, which Deadline got from a source:

Squad:

As you know, G4 was reintroduced last year to take advantage of the popularity of
game. We have invested in creating the new G4 as a TV and online destination for fans
to have fun, be inspired and connect with game content.

Over the past few months, we’ve been working hard to generate that interest in G4, but
the audience is low and the network has not achieved sustainable finance
results. This is certainly not what we hoped for and, as a result, we have achieved it
very difficult decision to stop G4 activities, with immediate effect.
I know this is disappointing news, and I am disappointed too. I want to thank you
and all the members of the G4 team for their hard work and commitment to the network.

Our human resources team is contacting you to provide you with support,
discuss other opportunities that may be available and answer all your questions
he could have.

Thanks again for all your hard work for G4.

Sincerely,

Dave Scott
President and CEO
Comcast Spectacor

Were you a fan of G4? Is there any content on the network that you hope to see moved somewhere else?