The BBC is bringing back Josie Long’s Radio 4 series Short Cuts – less than two years after axing it.
The Radio 4 programme began in 2012 as a home for short personal documentaries and experimental storytelling but it was axed in 2025, to the dismay of listeners who launched a petition to try to save it.
Now the BBC is teaming up with Canadian and Australian broadcasters CBC and ABC to revive the show, which will be made by original creators Falling Tree Productions.
‘I can't wait to start making Short Cuts again,’ said Long. ’It's been the joy and privilege of my career to present this series. There are so many new ideas, voices and ways of making things in sound to discover - I'm proud to be a part of a show that is dedicated to helping bring these into the world.’
Radio 4 controller Mohit Bakaya said the coalition was ‘a powerful example of how public broadcasters can join forces to champion distinctive audio, and a brilliant addition to the opportunities Radio 4 already offers to emerging producers to help them develop their craft’.
Jess Radburn, ABC’s head of audio on demand, added: ‘Short Cuts is a brilliant showcase for inventive, intimate audio storytelling, and we’re thrilled to bring it back to global audiences. This renowned short-form series gives Australian creators the chance to be heard alongside leading emerging and established talent worldwide.’
As part of the relaunch, Falling Tree Productions is hosting an open call for pitches from international audio producers via their website, with submissions closing on July 1.
