The UK’s television industry is facing a severe crisis that could result in the disappearance of British stories from the screen, according to Elisabeth Murdoch, co-founder of production company Sister. The industry is experiencing a crisis due to the outflow of production talent and challenges in sourcing funding for local content. British producers are creating excellent shows for global platforms using British talent and settings; however, these stories differ from what the BBC or Channel 4 typically seek. The BBC has greenlit projects but struggles to secure sufficient budget for them.

Murdoch highlights that the industry has transformed over the past decade, shifting from a relatively local market to a global one, which has brought both investment and risks to creativity and British culture. The industry’s concentration on high-end dramas with international appeal is driving this crisis. According to Patrick Spence, executive producer of Mr Bates vs The Post Office, such a show would not be made today. While 80% of content on public service broadcaster channels is British, the ratio drops to an estimated 10% on streamers.

Murdoch believes that the crisis is partly cyclical, exacerbated by factors like the pandemic, streaming services, and reduced advertising revenue for public service broadcasters. Tax breaks have been suggested as a means to support the industry, with Peter Kosminsky proposing a levy on streamers to fund local content. The crisis has led to established TV figures taking lower-level jobs, and those remaining in work are handling burdens typically managed by multiple people. The BBC spokesperson emphasized their commitment to promoting British creativity and culturally relevant content in a competitive global market.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/mar/18/uk-tv-industry-hit-by-perfect-storm-says-elisabeth-murdoch