Why British TV Shows Often Find American Remakes Successful

Have you ever wondered why so many beloved British TV shows have found their way onto American screens, often as reimagined versions or outright remakes? The answer is multifaceted, involving linguistic laziness, cultural nuances, and the desire for universal entertainment. Let's delve into the reasons behind this trend and explore why American audiences have embraced remakes of British shows.

The Linguistic Challenge

One significant factor is the language barrier. As mentioned, the average American, Joe and Josephine, might find the slight accent differences in British shows too daunting to appreciate. This attitude, often replicated by others, stems from a perceived simplicity and ease of understanding their own country's culture. For instance, in the UK version of The Office, viewers are treated to a subtle, almost documentary-style portrayal of everyday working life. The US version, however, opts for a more overtly comedic approach, bombarding the audience with jokes that might be considered obvious and lacking in subtlety.

Cultural Nuances and Subtleties

The British version of The Office excels in its cultural nuances. It captures the introspective and often mundane details of life in a British office setting. The subtleties woven into the storylines are appreciable to British audiences but can be lost on an American audience who may require more direct and obvious explanations. Conversely, the American version simplifies these elements, making them more relatable and easier to follow, even at the cost of depth. This strategic simplification is often the difference between an engaging British original and a more straightforward American remake.

Shifting Global Trends and Best Practices

Additionally, the success of British shows in other countries provides a compelling reason for American networks to consider remakes. Foreign TV networks frequently adapt American shows, believing that if something works well in one market, it might perform just as well, if not better, in their own. This phenomenon is not limited to the UK and America; shows from Columbian origins, like Ugly Betty, have also gained popularity when adapted for different countries.

Simultaneous Adaptation and Popular Demand

The same cultural adaptation principle applies to American remakes of British shows. Networks seek to capitalize on the global success of these shows. For example, Married With Children, an American show, enjoys significant popularity in Eastern Europe. Similarly, international versions of game shows like Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune have been highly successful across various regions. These are just some examples of how the success of one version can lead to reimagining for different markets. The British version of The Office faced a similar fate, undergoing a transformation to meet the preferences and expectations of the American audience.

Capitalizing on Local Preferences

Ultimately, remaking is about appealing to a local audience. International TV networks remake programs to speak directly to their home viewers. These audiences are accustomed to hearing their own accents and seeing familiar people and locations. Familiarity breeds comfort, making it easier for viewers to invest in the show. This is why remakes of British shows like The Inbetweeners, Red Dwarf, and Fawlty Towers may not have been suitable for American audiences, as they are deeply rooted in a specific British culture and humor that might not resonate with a broader American audience.

In conclusion, the trend of remaking British TV shows into American versions is a result of a combination of linguistic challenges, cultural nuances, global trends, and local preferences. While the original versions capture a unique cultural essence, the remakes often adapt to broader audiences, ensuring their success across different markets.