Ratings of Aussie shows plummet

Poor ratings have resulted in the closure and threatened cancellation of two Australian primetime television shows.

Channel 9 reality series Dance Your Ass Off has been dumped after just one episode and Channel Ten comedy current affairs programme The 7pm Project may also face the axe.

The US show that combines weight loss with dancing was heavily promoted before it debuted on Tuesday night, but still drew less than 800,000 viewers, according to the Herald Sun.

The 7pm Project, fronted by Rove McManus's ex-sidekicks Dave Hughes and Carrie Bickmore, started well with 1.2m spectators, though has dwindled in popularity as the week progressed.

Other reality shows such as Australia's Perfect Couple are also said to be in danger.