The Heart of the Nation: the enduring power of national broadcasters
In an independent report commissioned from Oliver & Ohlbaum (O&O) by Everyone TV, we look at how different types of audiovisual services and platforms in the UK are cutting through with the British public. We reviewed market trends and carried out a survey of 1,500 nationally representative respondents.
Our study reveals that it is our national broadcasters – the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and 5 – that unify us, connect us and best represent us, as well as providing the most memorable, lasting moments that drive national conversation. Other services are complementary, contributing to the variety of content that UK audiences enjoy.
Watching together: from ‘I’m a Celebrity…’ on ITV to ‘The Traitors’ on the BBC, the national broadcasters provided the shows that audiences most enjoy watching with others. This holds true for all ages and specifically for younger generations
Delivering the most memorable moments: ‘Mr Bates vs The Post Office’ (ITV) was chosen unprompted. Other stand-out moments were ‘Gavin & Stacey: The Finale’ on the BBC on Christmas Day and the 2025 Women’s Football Euros across the BBC and ITV
Driving the national conversation: Audiences commented how ITV’s ‘Mr Bates vs The Post Office’ led to change. And said they turn to the national broadcasters for accurate news, the detail behind the headlines, and ‘what is really happening’
Reflecting our lives: the national broadcasters make the shows that best reflect our families, communities and towns – a view that is held even more strongly by those living outside London and by households on lower incomes
Making us feel connected across the UK: they make us feel connected to people up and down the country, and across all four Nations
Read our full findings here