If I remember rightly the Now Show format changed a year or two back to better represent geneder and ethnic diversity and be more “balanced” in terms of perceived political leanings. Hence Mitch Benn, Jon Holmes, John Finnemore, Marcus Brigestock et al being shown the door.
The idea being put forward (I think on PM) was that the now show should be a vehicle for emerging acts and increasing diversity and this has been done almost to the exclusion of everything else. All admirable intentions but falls flat on its face if no one wants to listen to it. It has really stopped being satire as a result. The News Quiz has done the same but it either hasn’t had the same impact or hasn’t been followed as closely.
Luckily iPlayer still has Hut 33, Old Harry’s Game, Cabin Pressure, Infinite Monkey Cage, etc. on fairly regular repeats. Ed Reardon’s Week is usually good. Hopefully some new episodes of The BrigSociety and Simon Evans Goes To Market are in the works too.