2018 was a landmark year for British television, a period marked by both the continuation of beloved franchises and the emergence of bold new voices and formats. The year showcased the UK's continued strength in producing high-quality drama, comedy, and reality TV, while simultaneously grappling with the evolving landscape of streaming services and changing viewing habits. This exploration delves into the key trends and highlights of British television in 2018.
What were the most popular British TV shows in 2018?
Pinpointing the most popular is difficult without precise viewing figures across all platforms, but several shows dominated the conversation and achieved significant critical acclaim and/or high viewership. These included:
- Bodyguard: This gripping political thriller, starring Richard Madden, became a cultural phenomenon, setting viewership records for BBC One and sparking widespread discussion on social media. Its intense plot and compelling characters captivated audiences.
- Killing Eve: This darkly comedic spy thriller, starring Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer, was a critical darling, lauded for its stylish direction, sharp writing, and compelling performances. It quickly gained a devoted international following.
- The Great British Baking Show (Bake Off): Remaining a consistent ratings winner, Bake Off continued its reign as a comforting and beloved family show, proving the enduring appeal of wholesome competition.
- Peaky Blinders: Season 5 of this critically acclaimed gangster drama further cemented its place as a cornerstone of British television, attracting both loyal fans and new viewers.
What new British TV shows premiered in 2018?
2018 saw a wave of fresh programming, representing diverse genres and styles:
- A Very English Scandal: This miniseries, starring Hugh Grant and Ben Whishaw, offered a compelling and darkly humorous look at a real-life political scandal. Its high production value and strong performances garnered significant praise.
- Patrick Melrose: This five-part miniseries starring Benedict Cumberbatch explored themes of addiction, trauma, and family dynamics with raw emotion and powerful performances.
- Wanderlust: This Netflix series offered a modern exploration of relationships and infidelity, gaining attention for its mature themes and strong cast.
What were the major trends in British TV in 2018?
Several key trends shaped the landscape of British television in 2018:
- The Rise of Streaming: The impact of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming services continued to grow, offering viewers more choice and challenging the traditional dominance of terrestrial broadcasters.
- The Continued Strength of Drama: High-quality drama remained a cornerstone of British television, with shows like Bodyguard and Killing Eve attracting both critical acclaim and massive audiences.
- Increased Diversity: While still having room for improvement, 2018 saw a greater emphasis on diverse casting and storylines, reflecting the changing demographics of the UK.
- The Power of Social Media: Social media played a crucial role in driving conversation and buzz around shows, particularly Bodyguard, highlighting the increasingly intertwined relationship between television and social media.
Did the popularity of streaming services impact British TV in 2018?
Absolutely. The rise of streaming services presented both challenges and opportunities for British television. The increased competition for viewers forced traditional broadcasters to innovate and produce higher-quality content to remain competitive. Simultaneously, streaming platforms offered new avenues for British productions to reach wider audiences, both domestically and internationally. This led to a more complex and dynamic television landscape.
How did British TV adapt to changing viewing habits in 2018?
Broadcasters adapted by investing in on-demand services and catch-up platforms, making their content more readily accessible to viewers on their own schedules. The rise of binge-watching also influenced the production of many shows, with shorter seasons becoming increasingly common, especially for dramas. Furthermore, the increased availability of subtitles and dubbing reflected a growing awareness of the need for greater accessibility.
In conclusion, 2018 proved to be a pivotal year for British television, marked by both the enduring success of established franchises and the exciting emergence of new talent and formats. The evolving media landscape, driven by streaming services and changing viewing habits, spurred innovation and resulted in a diverse and engaging range of programming. The year’s successes laid the foundation for the continued evolution and global influence of British television in the years to come.
