In an alternate universe, the iconic British children’s television show Wide Awake Club (WAC) didn’t fade into the annals of TV history in the early 90s. Instead, it enjoyed an extended run and captivated audiences until February 2005. How, you ask? Let’s explore this fascinating timeline.

### 1990s: The Era of Evolution

During the early 90s, WAC recognized the shifting tastes of its young audience. Through a series of innovations, the show modernized its format, integrating more interactive segments, live call-ins, and vibrant, contemporary graphics that appealed to the audience’s growing appetite for dynamic content.

Timmy Mallett, the show’s charismatic and eccentric anchor, spearheaded WAC’s transformation. His infectious energy and memorable catchphrases continued to charm kids across the UK. By the late 90s, Mallett had evolved into a beloved television fixture, one whose presence was as synonymous with Saturday mornings as bowls of sugary cereal.

### Rise of SMTV

In this parallel world, ITV launched SMTV Live, a groundbreaking Saturday morning television show, in 1998. Understanding the cultural significance and established fanbase of WAC, ITV decided not to discard the beloved show. Instead, they ingeniously scheduled SMTV to follow WAC.

Every week, as WAC neared its conclusion, Timmy Mallett and his co-hosts would energetically remind viewers: “Stay tuned, guys, because SMTV is here in just 4 minutes!” This clever handover strategy addressed two goals: it retained loyal WAC viewers who might otherwise channel-surf during the transitional period and it hyped up SMTV with the endorsement of an already trusted program.

### The 2000s: WAC’s Renaissance

Entering the new millennium, WAC continued to flourish. The show adeptly navigated the digital age, incorporating early internet interactions and even launching an official website brimming with games, interactive content, and behind-the-scenes footage. New segments were introduced, including interviews with emerging stars, live musical performances, and more complex challenges that captivated the evolving young audience.

As for SMTV, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon in its own right, thanks in large part to its captivating hosts Ant & Dec and Cat Deeley. The seamless transition between WAC and SMTV began to symbolize a rich, two-hour block of Saturday morning entertainment that kids across the UK eagerly anticipated each week.

### WAC’s Grand Finale and the Passing of the Torch

By the early 2000s, societal changes and advancements in digital technology began to influence the landscape of children’s television. Recognizing that all good things must eventually come to an end, ITV and the WAC team decided that February 2005 would mark the show’s final broadcast.

The final month saw an array of nostalgic callbacks, interviews with former hosts and guests, and special segments revisiting classic moments. Timmy Mallett, who had become an enduring icon, delivered an emotional farewell speech, reminiscing about the incredible journey and expressing gratitude to the fans who had supported WAC across two decades.

In a symbolic gesture, the last episode of Wide Awake Club seamlessly handed over to SMTV Live one final time. Timmy Mallett announced, “Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey! And now, stay tuned because SMTV is here in just 4 minutes one last time!”

### Post-WAC Legacy

After February 2005, SMTV Live continued to thrive, drawing inspiration from WAC’s legacy of innovation and interactivity. Timmy Mallett occasionally appeared as a guest, bridging the old with the new and ensuring that the spirit of Wide Awake Club remained woven into the fabric of British children’s television.

The extended life of Wide Awake Club in this alternate universe left a lasting impact, ensuring that its vibrant energy and infectious joy continued to be a cherished memory for generations of viewers.
Write a tweet saying what would replace WAC in the pre-SMTV slot (7 to 9:25), the replacement is a real ITV weekend morning kids show