đş Weekly TV Industry Roundup: Survival, Innovation, and Global Perspectives Headline: UK TVâs Fight for Survival: What Lies Ahead in 2025
The UK production industry is navigating one of its most turbulent phases in recent memory. Between tightening budgets, commissioning freezes, and a freelance workforce on edge, the big question is: How do we survive to 2025?
Broadcasters and production companies alike are scaling back, with many predicting the real pinch to be felt in the first half of next year. From conversations on set to boardroom discussions, itâs clear that the landscape is shiftingâand not necessarily for the better. While some companies are consolidating and cutting costs, others are looking overseas for co-productions and alternative funding.
But itâs not all doom and gloom. The appetite for high-quality, original reality formats remains strong. Those able to pivot, innovate, and tap into global marketsâparticularly in the U.S. and Southeast Asiaâmay find the lifelines they need. Expect to see more hybrid formats that blur the lines between scripted and unscripted, alongside a rise in formats that reflect societal changes.
Key takeaway: 2024 will be about surviving the storm. To thrive in 2025, companies need to think global, diversify revenue streams, and maintain a close watch on emerging trends.
đ Trending Now: Global News in TV Production
1. The Reality Boom in Southeast Asia Southeast Asiaâs unscripted TV market continues to boom, driven by both local broadcasters and streaming platforms. Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines are ramping up their production output, with formats ranging from high-stakes game shows to intimate reality docuseries. Singapore is emerging as a regional hub for format development, and collaborations with UK and U.S. production houses are on the rise. For UK producers, thereâs an opportunity here to co-produce and tap into this vibrant market.
2. FAST Channels Are Shaping the Future of Content Delivery Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) channels are gaining traction across Europe and the U.S. As more households cut the cord, the demand for 24/7, niche, and genre-based channels is growing. Reality TV, with its endless rerun potential, is a perfect fit for this model. If youâre not already thinking about how your content can be repurposed for these platforms, now is the time.
3. U.S. Writersâ Strike Ends: What This Means for Unscripted The end of the Writers Guild strike has seen a return to scripted programming, but the halt in production over the past few months has left an undeniable gap. Reality TV producers in the U.S. have seized this moment, with a surge in commissions for unscripted content. Could the UK see a similar trend if the strikes ripple across the Atlantic in future?
4. New Reality Formats in Europe: Going Big on Social Experimentation European broadcasters are betting big on social experimentation in reality formats. Shows like The Traitors in the UK and Dragonsâ Den spin-offs are fusing competition with psychological elements. The public seems hungry for reality that forces contestants into real-world dilemmasâso if youâre developing formats, lean into the moral gray areas and societal themes.
đĄ Spotlight: Trends to Watch â˘
5. Asian Game Show Formats Head West Asian game show formats are still gaining momentum in the West, following the success of South Korean and Japanese formats like The Masked Singer. U.S. and UK broadcasters are eyeing new imports from Asia, with a particular interest in fast-paced, visually dynamic game shows. Producers in the UK should keep an eye on these formats, especially with the demand for fresher, more energetic game shows.
đŠď¸ Opportunities for UK Freelancers Despite the challenges, there are still international opportunities for freelancers. Southeast Asia, in particular, is opening doors to experienced TV professionals from the UK. Productions are looking for seasoned directors, editors, and format developers who can bring a fresh perspective to their local shows. If youâre willing to travel, or even consult remotely, now is the time to get your foot in the door.
Interactive Reality TV: With platforms like Netflix experimenting with interactive content, audiences are looking for more ways to engage with their favorite shows. Could this be the next big thing for unscripted formats? ⢠Sustainability on Set: Green production practices are becoming the norm, not just a nice-to-have. As more broadcasters commit to sustainability targets, expect to see tighter regulations and incentives for productions that minimize their carbon footprint.
As we head into the last quarter of 2024, itâs clear that the industry is in flux, but with that comes opportunity. Whether itâs looking to international markets, developing fresh formats, or exploring new distribution models, the future belongs to those willing to adapt and innovate.
Until next week, JG Jonathan Glazier Media Consultant,
Format Creator & Multicamera Director
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