Trouble with UK TV drama...
Failed to meet the challenge of US cable channels.
US dramas are more daring and take many more risks which grabs the viewers attention much more than plain, boring TV.
Changing platforms...
Content viewing via a TV still dominates in the UK.
3/4 of households in the UK have a PVR (personal video recorder).
Use of time shift is increasing.
Growth of SVOD (subscription video on demand) web based channels - Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV etc.
Netflix dominates with 24% of UK market and 5million subscribers - 10% growth from 2015-2016.
Audiences...
Rise of binge-watching started with DVD in the 1990s.
A move from 'water cooler' TV to 'shared universe' fandom.
US long form drama often uses easter eggs and mid season breaks to generate fan intensity and maintain media profile.
Why do audiences love LFTVD?
High quality drama.
Multiple episodes - can spend A LOT of time with favourite characters.
Content can be dark and difficult but also innovative.
Attracts some of the best actors and writers.
Time shifting - can watch whenever you want.
Easily accessible.
'State of the nation' TV...
Long form shows challenged the simplistic storylines and stereotypical characters that dominate network TV.
HBO launched The Sopranos in 1999 which was a huge commercial and critical hit. Increasingly, these shows were about the crisis of US identity and hegemony.
Other shows followed including The Wire which won awards and turned US TV into a medium for various subject content and critique.