Funding Crisis Threatens UK’s Best TV Shows

I’ve been hearing all the buzz lately about this particular series, and now it seems that the ratings for Adolescence on Netflix are verified, solidifying its position as a global streaming powerhouse in my eyes.

The four-part series, filmed using an impressive single-take technique for each episode, has garnered a breathtaking 24.3 million views since its debut last week. Currently holding the top spot on Netflix UK, it was also the most watched series of the week in 71 countries worldwide.

However, screenwriter Jack Thorne, known for his work on “Adolescence,” has expressed concerns that series like these might face potential risks because of the ongoing financial difficulties in funding UK scripted programs.

During an interview with Deadline, Thorne expressed that Netflix is just one piece of the puzzle in maintaining our creative endeavors, referencing his recent achievements with projects like Adolescence and Toxic Town.

He expressed concern: “If Channel 4 and the BBC can’t produce these shows, it’s disheartening. The issue of global finance and its impact is very relevant now, causing many of my friends and budding writers to miss out on the chance to share their narratives.

Should they be deprived of sharing their narratives, the entire cultural fabric weakens, making productions such as ‘Adolescence’ and ‘Toxic Town’ unfeasible. While Netflix creating these shows is thrilling, it doesn’t encompass all aspects.

Thorne stated: “I’m eager to witness the rise of a new talent, similar to Michaela Coel or Jimmy McGovern. This can only happen if Channel 4 and the BBC are provided with enough strength to produce dramas. I do believe this calls for government aid and a reevaluation of our industry’s role.

Additionally, Thorne expressed his worries regarding the future of TV writing, noting the discrepancy between the types of series readily approved and those aiming to present a broader spectrum of narratives.

In my youth, our television offerings were incredibly diverse, covering numerous aspects of life. However, today’s programming seems to lack this diversity, as it’s heavily focused on crime. This is what Thorne expressed.

He went on to say: “I enjoy watching crime series, but as a budding author with my own stories to share – like those of my mom, a social worker, or the experience I had with ice skating for a year and developing feelings for another guy – these personal tales often get overshadowed due to concerns about what programming is deemed appropriate. This happens because we’re so preoccupied with financial constraints and budget issues.

Such a traditional mindset is extremely harmful in these trying times, especially when we’re facing a deep economic downturn like now. The need for change becomes more urgent as the questions regarding our current state intensify.

2021 saw BBC’s head of dramas, Lindsay Salt, acknowledge that the network is financially constrained, unable to completely finance productions. Furthermore, it has been disclosed that numerous programs are presently stalled because they lack sufficient financial backing.

With shows such as Mr Bates vs The Post Office, Toxic Town, and Adolescence achieving success, it’s evident that taking risks in television production can be profitable. However, it remains to be seen if this trend will open doors for new writers to share diverse tales of their own.

Read More

2025-03-19 15:05