Viewers can't recall great BBC comedies

BBC governors have praised the corporation’s comedy programming – even though viewers are hard-pressed to remember any of it.

Their annual report, heralded as a warts-and-all overview of the state of the broadcaster, said: “We particularly welcome BBC1’s launch of a range of new comedy titles  in peak time this year.”

But it warned the channel should not be too quick to drop ailing sitcoms, and give them time to develop.

The document does not name any specific examples of BBC1 comedies, but the most high-profile launches of the past year were The Crouches, criticised for not employing black writers, Trevor’s World Of Sport, quickly dropped after being shunted around the ratings, and Paul O’Grady’s much-slated bingo hall sitcom Eyes Down.

The governors concluded: “While the new commissions have had varying degrees  of success they have made the channel  the UK’s biggest investor in this notoriously risky genre, an investment which must continue if BBC1 is to live up to  its comedy heritage.

“Furthermore, to  be successful, the channel needs the confidence to give its commissions time  to develop when initially faced with disappointing ratings.”

But however proud the governors are of their comedy, it is struggling to make an impact on viewers.

The report contained results of audience research which concluded: “There was a perceived lack of comedy on television, compounded by repeats of older series.

“Although, when prompted, people could think of new BBC comedies that were good, current and relevant.”

Across other channels, the governors praised BBC3 for its “risk-taking approach” that helps refresh the genre; while Radio 4 exceeded its commitment to make 300 hours of original comedy every year.

Published: 17 Jul 2004