The television industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, moving from what was once considered a golden age of television, often referred to as “peak TV,” to a more cautious and risk-averse landscape. Lindsay Salt, the BBC drama boss, recently highlighted this shift, expressing her concerns about the industry’s move towards “peak caution.” Salt’s reflection on the current state of the drama landscape raises important questions about the impact of financial pressures, commercial imperatives, and a general sense of fear that has permeated the industry.
The Rise of Cautious Commissioning
As Salt pointed out, the industry has witnessed buyers retreating into more cautious commissioning spaces, defaulting to what are perceived as safe bets. This risk aversion has been exacerbated by factors such as inflation, content and platform saturation, retrenchment, and even events like the writers’ strike. The result is a landscape where bold and innovative choices are becoming increasingly rare, with industry players opting for tried-and-tested formulas over creative experimentation.
The Role of the BBC in a Changing Landscape
Salt’s vision for the BBC as a beacon of risk-taking and innovation in an era of peak caution is both inspiring and ambitious. By setting out her priorities for drama, including a focus on currency, character, and empathy, Salt is signaling a departure from the traditional notions of “state of the nation” drama towards more contemporary and nuanced storytelling. Her emphasis on redefining British drama and creating iconic characters reflects a broader shift towards more diverse and character-driven narratives in television.
One of Salt’s key priorities is to redefine British “state of the nation” drama, which she believes has become stagnant and outdated. By championing series like “I May Destroy You” and “This is Going to Hurt” as examples of playful and messy storytelling that still capture the essence of contemporary British life, Salt is advocating for a more dynamic and inclusive approach to storytelling. Her commission of James Graham’s “Dear England,” starring Joseph Fiennes as Gareth Southgate, reflects this desire to push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of British identity.
Salt’s critique of the industry’s focus on flashy concepts at the expense of deep and compelling characters is a timely reminder of the importance of strong characterization in television drama. By calling for the creation of the next iconic characters, Salt is urging producers and creatives to prioritize depth and complexity in their storytelling. This focus on character-driven narratives not only elevates the quality of television drama but also contributes to a more diverse and representative media landscape.
Lindsay Salt’s candid assessment of the current state of the television drama landscape offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. By championing risk-taking, innovation, and the creation of iconic characters, Salt is leading the charge towards a more vibrant and dynamic television landscape. As the industry continues to navigate the complexities of a changing media landscape, Salt’s vision for the future of television drama provides a roadmap for success in an era of peak caution.