CTV’s The Social switches from studio TV show to vodcast

L-R: Jess Allen, Melissa Grelo, Cynthia Loyst and Andrea Bain

Bell Media-owned Canadian broadcaster CTV is turning its talkshow series The Social into a video podcast ahead of its 14th season next month.

The Social, which first launched in 2013, will continue to be available weekdays on CTV, as well as on streamer Crave, iHeartRadio Canada and The Social’s YouTube channel.

The new format will be filmed live on The Social’s Toronto set, but without a studio audience, as it aims to combine “the strength of a podcast with the feel of a daytime series.” CTV said the new look series would “better reach audiences wherever they are.”

Three of The Social’s hosts – Jess Allen, Andrea Bain and Cynthia Loyst – will remain with the new format, while co-host and moderator Melissa Grelo is leaving to focus on her own podcast.

“The Social has always adapted to better serve viewers. As the reach and influence of video podcasts grows globally, this evolution was the natural next step for The Social, allowing the series to expand and reach Canadian and international audiences on the platform of their choice,” said exec producer Laura Scarfo.

“Combining what’s made The Social popular with the more personal approach of a podcast allows greater opportunity for in-depth conversations and connections with audiences.”