The Bunker
Is British TV dying?
Mar 26, 2025
Scott Bryan, a savvy TV critic and broadcaster, sheds light on the crisis in British television. He discusses how traditional broadcasters are struggling against the tide of global streaming platforms. Notable series like 'Mr. Bates' face commissioning challenges as budgets tighten. The conversation moves to the impact of reboots on creativity and concerns over authentic British narratives being overshadowed by globally appealing content. With the future of iconic franchises like James Bond at stake, Bryan emphasizes the need to protect unique storytelling in the industry.
35:05
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Quick takeaways
- The British television industry is facing a crisis due to traditional broadcasters losing ground to streaming services amidst tightening budgets.
- The shift towards shorter series and reliance on established franchises may limit opportunities for new talent and diverse storytelling in British TV.
Deep dives
The British Television Industry in Crisis
The British television industry is facing significant challenges as traditional broadcast channels struggle to compete with the rise of streaming services. Many professionals are being forced to seek alternative employment, with reports of TV workers taking jobs as delivery drivers and bartenders. The financial strain stems from a combination of factors, including a slowdown in advertising revenue and a freeze on the BBC's license fee, which has not kept pace with inflation. This situation has created a 'perfect storm' for the industry, as funding for British stories becomes increasingly hard to secure.
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