Why Does the BBC Produce Fewer Episodes Compared to the US?

When it comes to television series, there is a stark difference in the number of episodes produced by the BBC and the US. While the US may throw big bucks into productions, ensuring they can recoup their investments through careful marketing, the BBC prioritizes quality over quantity. This article explores the reasons behind this difference and why fewer episodes can result in better quality content.

Episode Counts and Quality Content

Traditionally, a US series might have 12 to 24 episodes, with some shows even stretching to 24 or more. In contrast, the BBC usually produces 6 episodes, which can sometimes go up to 8 or 10. However, the quality of the content often compensates for the quantity. The focus on intricate writing and storytelling ensures that each episode is not just a quantity filler but a unique and engaging piece of work.

Marketing and Investment

The US television industry is driven by the belief that more episodes equate to higher returns. Shows like A Game of Thrones, which spanned eight seasons with over 70 episodes, epitomize this approach. The network invests heavily in marketing, knowing that a sprawling storyline can captivate audiences and ensure long-term loyalty even if individual episodes fluctuate in quality.

In the UK, particularly with the BBC, the approach is different. While quality is still paramount, the focus is on selling individual episodes and fostering a loyal, engaged audience over a shorter period. This approach is more akin to selecting fine wine: a few bottles with outstanding quality are better than a seemingly endless selection of mediocrities.

Writing and Production Dynamics

The dynamics of writing and production are also different between the BBC and US networks. In the US, scripts are often a collaborative effort, with multiple writers contributing to the final product. This collaborative approach can sometimes lead to significant changes in the script, making the final product vastly different from the original idea.

Conversely, the BBC typically relies on a smaller team, often composed of just one or two writers. The process is more streamlined, often leading to a closer adherence to the initial draft. This tighter focus allows the writers to maintain the integrity of the story, ensuring that every episode is a fresh and engaging experience for the audience.

Production and Broadcast Timing

Another significant difference lies in the production and broadcast timing. A US series will often have its episodes filmed and dispersed throughout a season, with the final cut being done at the end. In contrast, a BBC series will usually cut all episodes together before the first one is broadcast. This approach ensures a cohesive and well-polished final product, improving overall viewer satisfaction.

Writer Fairness and Audience Engagement

It is also important to consider the fairness to the writers and the audience. While the US may prioritize building a series with a potential for longevity, the BBC focuses on maintaining the quality of each episode. This ensures that even a shorter series can leave a lasting impact on viewers without the risk of intellectual property dilution through poor quality later episodes.

For instance, the critically acclaimed Fawlty Towers consists of only 12 episodes, split into two halves. This concise format allowed John Cleese, the star and lead writer, to fully realize his vision without the stress and strain of a larger production. His decision to refuse an offer for a third series was a testament to his belief in the show's integrity and his desire not to devalue the outstanding work he had already accomplished.

In conclusion, while the number of episodes produced by the BBC and the US differs, the focus on quality and individual series cohesion provides a compelling argument for the BBC's approach. Fewer, high-quality episodes can indeed be more appreciated and remembered, rather than a series that stretches out merely for the sake of quantity.

Conclusion

The decision to produce a smaller number of high-quality episodes versus a larger number of potentially lesser quality episodes is not about changing the content, but rather about valuing and prioritizing the experience of both the writers and the audience. By focusing on fewer, well-crafted episodes, the BBC ensures a consistent and superior viewing experience, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.