UK broadcasting executives have recently come under fire for their seemingly callous and insensitive attitude towards the mid-budget programing market. The head of Pact, John McVay, criticized the way in which BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 bosses publicly proclaimed the death of the mid-range market. Instead of showing empathy towards the producers who rely on this segment, the executives’ comments at the Edinburgh TV Festival were branded as cloth-eared and lacking in sensitivity.
McVay highlighted the lack of engagement from broadcasting bosses on this issue, with only Channel 4’s CEO, Alex Mahon, engaging in a meaningful conversation about the future of mid-range programming. Many producers who have been long-time suppliers to these broadcasters were blindsided by the sudden shift in priorities, leading to frustration and uncertainty about the future of their businesses. The lack of communication and transparency from the broadcasting executives has left many in the industry feeling abandoned.
The repercussions of the neglect of the mid-range programming market are already being felt, with several production companies such as RDF, Betty, and Wildflame either closing or downsizing in response to the changing landscape. Pact’s census data further highlighted the decline of the mid-range market, with a decrease in the proportion of producers with turnover between £5m-£10M and an increase in those in the £25M-£70M bracket. This shift has raised concerns about the diversity and skills pipeline within the UK TV industry.
The focus on big-budget franchises and established intellectual property (IP) by broadcasting buyers has been criticized for stifling creativity and limiting opportunities for emerging talent. James Graham’s MacTaggart lecture drew attention to the lack of working-class representation in UK TV and the industry’s reliance on a few select high-profile shows. This risk aversion by buyers could deter young professionals from entering the industry, leading to a lack of diversity and innovation in TV programming.
The UK broadcasting market’s disregard for the mid-range programming segment has far-reaching implications for producers, talent, and the industry as a whole. The need for a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach from broadcasting executives is crucial to ensuring the continued growth and success of the UK TV industry. The callousness and lack of empathy displayed towards the squeezed middle segment have created a sense of uncertainty and disillusionment among producers, highlighting the urgent need for a more collaborative and transparent relationship between broadcasters and content creators.
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