Blow for Jane McDonald as ITV axe plans for her to host reboot of iconic game show

JANE McDonald has been dealt a blow just as she was announced as the host of The Soap Awards.

The singer and TV presenter, 61, has been found cruising on Channel 5 in recent years.

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INSTAGRAM/JANE McDONALD

The star swapped her cruise ships for a studio floor[/caption]

However, Jane secretly swapped her luxury boats for a shinny studio floor as she hosted an episode of iconic game show Pyramid.

The format was given an hour-long episode by bosses in 2023 that was never planned for broadcast.

It took place in MediaCity studios in Manchester in front of a studio audience with Jane at the helm.

However, The Sun has learnt the show won’t be commissioned for a full series by ITV.

An insider said: “Jane is a brilliant broadcaster and worked really well on the pilot, and the contestants loved her.

“It’s not unusual for pilots not to be given a full series and it’s certainly not a reflection on Jane.

“She’s well respected by ITV, who have signed her up to host the rebooted Soap Awards this year.”

The Chase star Jenny Ryan was also involved in the pilot, with Jane posting a behind-the-scenes snap with The Vixen star on social media.

Pyramid aired in the UK on ITV for five series between 1981 and 1990 under the name The Pyramid Game with Steve Jones as host.

It was rebooted by digital channel Challenge in 2007 for one series with Donny Osmond at the helm.

Just like the US version – which is still on air today – it sees two teams composing of one celebrity and the other a civilian.

Against the clock, they have to convey mystery words and phrases in a certain category to win money.