Why Are British Shows’ Seasons Shorter Than American Shows?

For many viewers of British television, the difference in season lengths between shows over on the other side of the Atlantic and those from the United Kingdom can be quite stark. While some American series run for multiple seasons, it is not unusual for British shows to have much shorter runs. This article delves into the reasons behind this intriguing phenomenon.

The Case of Ongoing British Shows

Take, for example, the long-running soap operas from the UK that span over dozens of seasons. Casualty, a medical drama series, has been running for an impressive 37 seasons. Other soaps like Coronation Street and EastEnders have been on air for hundreds and hundreds of episodes, often with intricate overlapping plots.

Countless other British shows, ranging from detective dramas to sitcoms, also boast extended runs of more than 20 seasons. Silent Witness, Midsommer Murders, and Red Dwarf, for instance, have maintained their popularity and series continuity over extended periods. These shows have strong fan bases and dedicated followings, allowing them to sustain longer runs than many American counterparts.

The Contrast with American Shows

Contrarily, American shows often reach a certain level of success and then conclude, especially after a lengthy run. For example, Veronica Mars offered thrilling binge-watching opportunities as its third season drew to a close, but the abruptness of its finale and unresolved storyline marked the end of its series. Other shows like Angel, Revived X-Files, and Crossing Jordan also found themselves on what many consider to be premature ends due to declining ratings.

Even shows that continued for longer periods often struggled with unsatisfying or unresolved conclusions. Take the case of Teenage Bounty Hunters, which was abruptly cancelled after a promising start. The sudden and disappointing endings to these shows often leave fans disappointed and questioning the decision to conclude the series in such a manner.

Production Costs and Shorter Seasons

One of the key factors contributing to the shorter season lengths of British shows is production costs. A 24-episode season can require up to six months of shooting time, extensive team coordination, and substantial financial resources to maintain a robust writing staff and cast. This significant investment is not always a feasible business model for every network or production company.

However, this does not necessarily mean that shorter seasons equate to subpar content. Many British shows manage to produce high-quality, impactful content within shorter seasons. One prime example is Happy Valley, a six-episode long series that, despite its brevity, delivers a fiercely dark and compelling storyline. While some might prefer to binge-watch 10 or more episodes, others may appreciate the tightly focused storytelling that six episodes can offer.

Conclusion

The differences in season lengths between British and American shows can be attributed to a combination of production costs, network policies, and viewer expectations. While shorter seasons are not always synonymous with poor quality, the British television landscape offers long-running series that provide consistent and engaging content. As viewers continue to seek out quality entertainment, it is clear that both the brevity and the longevity of shows can serve their own unique purposes in the ever-evolving world of television.