Streaming platforms challenge BBC’s Christmas schedule
As Christmas approaches, Netflix is set to overshadow the BBC’s traditional festive programming, with the streaming service enhancing its lineup while the BBC appears to be relying on familiar favorites, reports BritPanorama.
Historically, shows like Morecambe and Wise and Only Fools and Horses drew in vast audiences of around 20 million viewers, as families congregated around the television after holiday meals. However, with a shift in viewing habits, younger audiences are more inclined to watch content on platforms like YouTube or binge series like Stranger Things on their personal devices.
The previous Christmas saw the BBC benefitting from a significant ratings boost due to the reunion special of Gavin & Stacey alongside the Wallace & Gromit film, Vengeance Most Fowl, which collectively held the attention of 17 million viewers. In December 2024, BBC One attracted a viewer reach of 48.4 million, exceeding Netflix’s 46.4 million for that month, according to ratings body Barb.
This year, however, the BBC’s Christmas Day offering lacks standout new programming, featuring well-worn shows such as Call the Midwife and Mrs Brown’s Boys, with the highlight being Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s last appearance as hosts of Strictly Come Dancing.
With Netflix recently spending around £15 billion on content compared to the BBC’s £5.9 billion income, the competition for festive viewers is fierce. The streaming giant is slated to release Goodbye June, a new emotional film featuring Kate Winslet, shortly before Christmas. Additionally, the final episodes of Stranger Things are scheduled to launch between Christmas and New Year.
In particular, industry insiders are noting that the release of the fifth season of Emily in Paris, available from 18 December, may serve as a strategic advantage for Netflix this holiday season. The series, criticized for its superficiality, nonetheless amassed a strong following, generating substantial viewership.
The BBC’s scheduled lineup remains focused on tried-and-true programming, with big events potentially saved for the New Year period. Anticipation surrounds the return of The Night Manager, starring Tom Hiddleston, which will compete with the Stranger Things finale on New Year’s Day.
ITV is also preparing a festive programme that includes Christmas editions of popular shows such as The Masked Singer and Celebrity Catchphrase.
Christmas TV highlights
Strictly Come Dancing – BBC One
The star-studded lineup may not be top tier, but viewers are expected to tune in for the heartfelt farewell to hosts Claudia and Tess.
Emily In Paris – Netflix
While receiving mixed reviews, this drama continues to draw viewers; season five finds Emily navigating life in Venice.
Stranger Things – Netflix
The final season’s premiere caused brief service interruptions due to overwhelming demand, with the concluding episodes releasing on New Year’s Day.
Dear Father Christmas – Channel 4
A family-friendly drama starring Lenny Rush and Stephen Fry, capturing the holiday spirit amidst a global conspiracy.
The End of an Era – Disney+
This docuseries offers an intimate look at Taylor Swift’s monumental Eras tour, launching in mid-December.
Tom Harrington, head of TV at Enders, points out that changing viewing habits have compelled UK broadcasters to temper their Christmas ambitions. He notes the fragmentation of audiences, with families no longer uniting for collective viewing experiences.
“The viewing experience is fragmenting at Christmas,” Harrington remarks. “Kids are opting for their screens or video games, making new show launches financially risky during the festive period.”
With the emphasis on value in December, streaming services are keen to bolster their content to stave off subscriber cancellations in early 2026.
Despite concerns about its Christmas slate, the BBC remains optimistic. Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips stated, “We’ve got so many terrific treats on the BBC this Christmas, with specials from beloved shows to new offerings across genres.” The upcoming schedule includes highlights such as a festive Amandaland special and a new nature documentary from Sir David Attenborough.
Last year, the BBC dominated Christmas viewing with the top ten most-watched programmes on the day, showcasing its resilient programming strategy amidst shifting viewer preferences.
