Channel 5’s head of programming has rejected a government call for more “distinctively British” TV shows – because he says his channel is not “government-led”. The proposal has been criticised by actors including David Tennant who described it as a political move. Channel 5’s Director of Programming Ben Frow claims the broadcaster’s priority is to embrace a wide-range of viewers and not follow government protocol. My job is to look at the schedule, make sure there’s a nice variety and try and second guess the audience. British programmes such as Only Fools and Horses, Fleabag and Derry Girls have been highlighted by the government as “distinctively British” programmes that would meet its obligation.

Source: The Times January 08, 2022 15:43 UTC