Viewers tell BBC they don't want 'downmarket' reality TV - but KEEP Strictly Come Dancing

 

By PAUL REVOIR - More by this author » Last updated at 01:07am on 18th December 2007 Comments

Downmarket: Viewers say they are sick of endless 'ratings-chasing shows'

 

The BBC has admitted its own audiences are fed up with the number of predictable and derivative shows it airs.

Viewers have told the corporation they are sick of endless "ratings-chasing shows" which lack originality and have asked for programmes to stop "plunging downmarket".

 

Despite this, the broadcaster has vowed to carry on with plans to cut the number of new shows it makes by 10 per cent to save millions of pounds.

 

A poll for the BBC Trust revealed audiences think the corporation's schedules are dominated by entertainment shows and "soap wars".

Calling for more imaginative and inventive programmes, the viewers claim the BBC has succumbed to an obsession with celebrities, makeover programmes and reality TV.

 

They feel it does not give enough prominence to serious drama and documentaries.

 

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Praise: Strictly Come Dancing was singled out

 

 

However, old favourites including University Challenge, Mastermind and Antiques Roadshow, as well as newer programmes such as Strictly Come Dancing and The Apprentice, were singled out for praise.

 

The research follows another survey which revealed that, while 72 per cent of viewers believe it was important for the BBC to have fresh ideas, just over half thought it actually did.

 

David Liddiment, of the BBC Trust, said: 'In exchange for their licence fee, people expect more surprise and more innovation.

 

"It is about management making a critical judgment about when a show feels tired."

Well hopefully it'll make some difference, this said it all for me

 

 

Gotta love the Paxman!