Netflix claims top spot in UK TV viewership rankings

In the UK, new viewing figures released in early January 2025 revealed that Netflix overtook BBC1 in overall viewing numbers, marking a significant shift in the landscape of television consumption. During September to November 2024, Netflix averaged 43.2 million viewers while the BBC trailed at 42.3 million. This change is attributed to several popular shows, including 'Fool Me Once,' 'Baby Reindeer,' and the latest series of 'Bridgerton,' which garnered enormous viewership numbers, with 'Bridgerton' alone achieving 92 million views in its first six months. The shift in viewer preference represents a growing trend where on-demand services surpass traditional broadcasting in the UK. Despite their recent losses, the BBC reclaimed the top viewing spot during the December holiday season, notable for its festive programming, including 'Gavin & Stacey: The Finale' and 'Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl,' which drew a remarkable 48.4 million viewers. The Christmas special of 'Gavin & Stacey' achieved high acclaim, becoming the most-watched scripted show, with 19.3 million viewers tuning in. This suggests that while Netflix has had a strong showing, traditional broadcasts can still command significant audience attention during key periods. Throughout 2024, Netflix continued its upward trajectory, even surpassing ITV in viewer ratings since March 2023. This consistent performance highlights how streaming services are reshaping viewing habits, particularly among younger demographics who prefer on-demand content over linear television schedules. BBC officials have expressed their views on the situation, arguing that a direct comparison between a single channel and an entire streaming service does not fully capture the viewing landscape, emphasizing their digital-first approach and the growing popularity of BBC iPlayer. Overall, the competition between Netflix and BBC demonstrates a pivotal moment in television, revealing the shifting dynamics as services evolve and the public's preferences continue to adapt towards more flexible, on-demand viewing options. The ongoing battle for viewers illustrates how both traditional broadcasters and streaming platforms must innovate to capture and maintain audience share in an increasingly competitive market.