Matt Tebbutt, who has been fronting Saturday Kitchen since James Martin’s exit in 2016, said things will become “very different” in the next few years, as he branches out into the world of YouTube.
While grateful to still have a successful show on television, the 51-year-old said it was now time to explore the new path after seeing the success it can bring.
He explained: “I’m looking into the world of YouTube currently, because everyone is jumping on that one and it seems to work. I think that’s how people are watching TV these days.”
Having seen the success of fellow chefs who’ve achieved international acclaim via the video-sharing platform, Matt is keen to follow in their footsteps.
“It drives more customers, it drives more views and they’re hugely successful with it. So I’ll be looking in to that,” he revealed.
When probed about the difficulties in sustaining viewership numbers, he acknowledged: “It absolutely is [a challenge], yeah because the new generation don’t watch what they call linear TV anymore, it’s all on their phones or their computers.
“And they can type in whatever they want and watch it whenever they want it. So, yeah, there’s a big change going on in TV land currently.
“All the broadcasters are sort of needing to catch up with how people view things so yeah it’s going to be very different over the next few years.”
Despite concerns for the future of television, Matt is confident that Saturday Kitchen will remain on screens thanks to its loyal audience.
“Is it a worry? I mean it’s kind out of my hands to be honest,” he declared when discussing the potential online migration of his show.
“We sort of carry on making the best show we can, people still love it, they’re still watching it, in their millions fortunately.
“So it’s still got a huge place but I think going forward, TV in general will have to address how it’s viewed.
“But for me now, no, it’s just a joy to make and people, while they keep watching it, we’ll keep making it.”
Celebrity chef and presenter Matt Tebbutt has been working with Lingo by Abbott to create a series of tips to assist individuals during the festive period. Lingo is designed to help individuals monitor and understand their glucose levels, promote a healthier lifestyle, and empower people to make informed dietary choices, especially during the festive season. For more information, visit Lingo – Your personal metabolic coach.
Saturday Kitchen airs today at 10am on BBC One.