In the news this week, the Film + TV Charity has released the results from its 2024 Looking Glass Survey, Emmerdale and Coronation Street are to see their schedules cut from next year, and broadcasters spending on big-budget TV fell to lowest level in almost a decade last year.
Read about it in this week’s Digest.
News
• The Film + TV Charity has released the results from its 2024 Looking Glass Survey. (Film + TV Charity) In reaction to the results, the Charity has said the local industry is at risk of a “mass exodus” of workers due, in part, to a mental health crisis exacerbated by the production downturn and lack of support. (Screen) If you’re struggling with any of the issues noted in the above articles, then please speak to someone. The Film + TV Charity have a 24 hour helpline (0800 0540 000), or call Samaritans on 116 123.
• Emmerdale and Coronation Street are to see their schedules cut from next year. (BBC) Performers’ union, Equity, and screenwriters’ union the WGGB have responded to the news. (Televisual) We’re seeking more detail about the proposals and in discussion with directors involved in ITV continuing dramas to hear their concerns and discuss the situation. If this impacts you, please reach out directly to our Head of Industry Relations Paul Evans at [email protected].
• UK broadcasters slashed their spending on big-budget TV shows to the lowest level in almost a decade last year, even as their US rivals Netflix, Disney and Amazon ploughed hundreds of millions more into British-made premium content. (Guardian)
Features
• The industry has had a turbulent time over the past few years, but figures from Broadcast Intelligence’s Programme Index suggest there may be a growth in commissioning. (Broadcast)
• “Our job is to ensure that the industry is a good place to work, one in which directors, and the people they work with, can thrive and continue creating the TV programmes and films which are enjoyed by audiences around the world.” CEO Andy Harrower spoke with ThisWeek Culture on key issues faced by members and the campaigns and initiatives we’re working on this year to support creative freelancers. (ThisWeek Culture)
• Executive producer Charlie Russell shares how the filmmakers explored painful memories in Curious Films’ upcoming documentary Boyzone: No Matter What. (Broadcast)
Opinion
• “We cannot afford to be blasé about freelancers leaving the industry”, writes Dr. Richard Wallis. (Broadcast)
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