A quiet Christmas Day unfolded on television screens across the UK, but amidst the festive cheer, a familiar champion emerged: The King’s Speech. Reaching six million viewers across BBC and ITV, it topped the charts, offering a moment of national unity.
However, the overall picture painted a more complex story. For the first time in a decade, the second most-watched program dipped below the five million mark, signaling a continuing decline in traditional television viewership. A subtle shift in how the nation chooses to spend its Christmas Day.
Strictly Come Dancing, a perennial favorite, secured a strong third place with 4.2 million tuning in for the Christmas special. It proved a bright spot, demonstrating the enduring appeal of live entertainment and dazzling performances.
The BBC largely dominated the top ten, claiming nine of the coveted slots. Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel, Call the Midwife, Gladiators, and a new entry, Amandaland, all attracted around three million viewers each, showcasing the breadth of the broadcaster’s festive offerings.
Rounding out the top ten were EastEnders, ITV’s The 1% Club, and The Weakest Link, with the latter achieving 2.6 million viewers. Interestingly, The Weakest Link also held the tenth position last year, though with a slightly higher audience.
The numbers sparked reflection on the changing landscape of Christmas television. A nostalgic glance back reveals the 1988 Radio Times festive edition still holds the record for the biggest-selling magazine in British history, a testament to a time when families meticulously planned their viewing schedules.
The rise of streaming services presents a significant challenge. As viewers increasingly turn to platforms like Netflix, the traditional Christmas Day schedule risks becoming a relic of the past. The potential acquisition of Warner Bros by Netflix could further consolidate control over festive entertainment.
Despite the overall downward trend, successes did emerge. The BBC celebrated the phenomenal performance of Celebrity Traitors, averaging a remarkable 15 million viewers across the nation, proving that compelling content can still capture a massive audience.
The BBC’s Chief Content Officer emphasized the importance of shared moments, stating that the broadcaster’s diverse range of programs offers “something for everyone.” With new series of The Traitors and The Night Manager on the horizon, the BBC aims to continue delivering captivating television in the new year.
The Christmas Day television schedule, once a cornerstone of British tradition, is undeniably evolving. Whether it can retain its cultural significance in the face of changing viewing habits remains to be seen, but the enduring appeal of certain programs suggests a future where shared experiences still hold value.
