Tag: television

Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game kicks off on the BBC ahead of the Men’s FIFA World Cup

The Scottish football superfan examines the contemporary state of football and its cultural significance

Ahead of Scotland meeting Brazil once again in the upcoming Men’s FIFA World Cup 2026, Scottish football superfan and one of the UK’s most critically acclaimed comedians Kevin Bridges is undertaking an international journey to examine the contemporary state of football and its cultural significance.

Travelling to locations including Brazil, Scotland and the USA, the programme explores how football is experienced across different communities and environments.

Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game (1×60’) is a brand-new commission for BBC Scotland, BBC One and iPlayer and will be made by Bango Studios, the production company established by BAFTA, RTS and Grierson-winning producers Emily Hudd and Iain Wimbush.

The special will follow Bridges as he engages with players, supporters and local voices to understand the role football plays today, examining themes of identity, community and change, and how the meaning of the game may have evolved over time.

For the first time in 28 years Scotland are going to the FIFA Men’s World Cup. And, in a beautiful coincidence (or nightmare) they’re playing Brazil again. It’s indisputably the biggest sporting event in Scotland’s recent memory and gives Scotland the opportunity to score their first ever victory over Brazil and a result that would instantly become one of the most memorable in Scottish football history.

Part travel adventure and part football investigation, Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game will see Kevin immerse himself in the deep-rooted relationship with football found across the world. And it’s Kevin’s own personal mission to see whether the joy of football he experienced in the 1998 World Cup still exists in football today.

Kevin Bridges said: “I’ve been a football fan for as long as I can remember, I was 11 years old when Scotland last qualified for the World Cup, a lot has changed about football since then and like a lot of people, I’ve become a little disillusioned with where the game is headed.

“I’m excited to be setting out on this mission; to see if the game still has a soul and that its beauty is not yet lost.”

Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment Commissioning at the BBC, said: “Kevin Bridges is one of the UK’s most beloved comedians, as well as a lifelong football obsessive.

“For the first time in 28 years, Scotland are back in the World Cup, and so Kevin’s off on an international journey to explore the contemporary state of football, its cultural significance and enduring appeal, in the hope he can bring home a few tips.

“We cannot wait to bring Kevin’s adventures to screen ahead of the BBC’s coverage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup this year.”

Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning, BBC Scotland, said: “Kevin will be treating audiences to his trademark wit on a journey which will be a perfect warm-up to Scotland’s return to the World Cup stage.

“He combines genuine admiration for Brazil’s footballing prowess with the traditional passion of a proud Scotland supporter. The result is a win for viewers – a documentary that’s funny, curious, and heartfelt.”

Iain Wimbush, Executive Producer for Bango Studios, said: “We all know what an incredible talent Kevin is – and it’s an honour to work with him on this passion project and create his own personal countdown to the world cup.”

Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game will air ahead of the BBC’s coverage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026.

Fans will be able to watch the highly anticipated final match of Group C, Scotland v Brazil, live from the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on BBC One and BBC iPlayer as part of the BBC’s extensive coverage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup. The match itself kicks off at 11pm (BST) on 24 June 2026.

Kevin Bridges: In Search of the Beautiful Game (1 x 60’) is a Bango Studios production, co-commissioned by BBC Scotland and BBC Entertainment, for BBC One, BBC Scotland and iPlayer.

Commissioners for the BBC are Neil McCallum for BBC Entertainment and Heather Kane-Darling for BBC Scotland. Iain Wimbush is the Executive Producer for Bango Studios. It will be produced by Liam O’Hare, and directed by BAFTA award winning director, Tommy Forbes.

Edinburgh-born musician Robbie Greig joins new BBC Gaelic quiz show

An Edinburgh-born musician will soon be appearing on screens across Scotland, as Robbie Greig takes part in BBC ALBA’s brand-new Gaelic quiz show, Mas Fhìor.

Marking BBC ALBA’s first step into high-energy studio gameshows, Mas Fhior (pronounced “masheer”) is a bold, home-grown Gaelic entertainment format produced in partnership with Glasgow-based BEEZR Studios and Screen Scotland.

Launching on BBC ALBA on Tuesday 17 February 2026, Mas Fhìor is a 12-part, fast-paced studio quiz where pairs of Gaelic-speaking contestants from across the UK must decide what’s true, what’s false and, crucially, who they can trust.

Taking its name from the Gaelic slang phrase meaning “as if”, the show tests confidence, credibility and quick thinking as the pressure builds and the truth becomes harder to spot.

Robbie is one of eight new faces who appear across the series as the show’s Pretenders – known in Gaelic as the Mas Fhìoraich – joining the action remotely from home and playing a key role in testing the instincts and judgement of the competing teams. Armed with convincing delivery and quick reactions, the Mas Fhiorach challenge contestants each episode to weigh up credibility as the game unfolds.

Music sits at the heart of Robbie’s life. A multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, banjo, fiddle and sings, he performs full-time across three folk bands while also working regularly as a session musician and teacher. His career has taken him around the world, and his skill as a fiddle player was recognised with the Niel Gow Scottish Fiddle Award.

Born and brought up in Edinburgh, Robbie followed his passion for traditional music to Benbecula at just 16, studying for an HNC in Traditional Music Performance before going on to achieve a first-class honours degree in Applied Music. He has since settled in Glasgow, where he continues to thrive in Scotland’s busy traditional music scene. While rooted in Gaelic and traditional music, his listening tastes are wide-ranging, spanning African music, jazz and country pop.

Robbie Greig said: “Taking part in Mas Fhìor was a brilliant experience and completely different from anything I do day to day. It was really challenging trying to keep my story straight under pressure.

“It’s a fun and entertaining show and perfect for watching along and guessing who’s telling the truth.”

Recorded at Night Sky Studios in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, the series is hosted by popular BBC ALBA and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal presenter Niall Iain MacDonald, whose quick-witted, fast-talking style keeps the pace high and the pressure firmly on.

Produced by entertainment powerhouse BEEZR Studios and directed by quiz show veteran John Smith, Mas Fhìor adds to BBC ALBA’s ongoing commitment to original entertainment, while supporting the continued growth of Scotland’s screen sector.

Bill MacLeod, Commissioning Editor at BBC ALBA, said: “Mas Fhìor is an unapologetically entertaining quiz format – perfectly tailored for Gaelic viewers but with a universal appeal.

“Viewers will want to lean in and play along – all the while getting to know the quirky personalities of our regular panel of ‘Pretenders’. The new show really underlines our commitment to delivering original, high-production-value entertainment.

“We’re thrilled that the creative team at BEEZR Studios have developed this unique, home-grown format specially for BBC ALBA and we’re especially grateful for the support of Screen Scotland in its development and production.

“With a cast of amazing Gaels from across the country and a quick-witted, fast-talking host in the shape of Niall Iain, Mas Fhìor promises to be another example of world-class TV and original entertainment from Scotland.”

Alasdair MacCuish, Executive Producer at Beezr Studios:“Mas Fhìor was developed with BBC ALBA’s audience firmly in mind – a fast, fun quiz that rewards personality, quick thinking and a love of language as much as general knowledge.

“Working with BBC ALBA and Screen Scotland, Beezr has created an innovative and bold new format, which takes advantage new technology to bring scale and ambition. As a result, Mas Fhìor feels fresh and contemporary whilst being squarely rooted in communities across Scotland.” 

Emily Orr from Screen Scotland said: “It’s fantastic to be able to support the team at BEEZR Studios to showcase their abilities across this new format and we can’t waitfor audiences to enjoy Mas Fhìor.”

Mas Fhìor will broadcast on BBC ALBA from Tuesday 17 February 2026, with new episodes airing weekly.

The Traitors series 4 Finale brings more than 9 million viewers to BBC

It’s the most watched overnight audience of the civilian version of the series ever

The series finale of The Traitors averaged 9.4 million with a peak of 9.6 million and an audience share of 54.9%.

This is the biggest overnight audience across the market since the final episode of The Celebrity Traitors in November 2025 and makes it the most watched overnight audience of the civilian version of the series ever.

Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment Commissioning at the BBC said: “The dramatic conclusion to series four of The Traitors, expertly produced by the brilliant team at Studio Lambert Scotland, proved exactly why this grippingly unmissable game continues to surprise, entertain and delight with over 9 million faithful viewers watching the nail-biting finale so far.

“Only the BBC can bring audiences all across the UK together for edge of the seat entertainment like this that every generation can enjoy.”

Ofcom: Royals and reality dominate Britain’s most complained about show

Aura Print has found that over the past five years, Good Morning Britain has racked up nearly 92,000 Ofcom complaints, making it the most complained-about show in the UK.

Reality favourites like Love Island and outspoken presenters such as Julia Hartley-Brewer and Dan Wootton aren’t far behind, whilst royal-related shows such as Harry and Meghan’s Oprah appearance and the King’s Coronation sparked nearly 15,000 complaints in total.

Key findings:

  • Piers Morgan comments on Meghan Markle had the most complaints for a single broadcast: 57,973
  • Piers Morgan, Julia Hartley-Brewer and Dan Wootton are amongst the most complained about TV presenters in the UK
  • MAFS UK generated under 2,000 complaints, showing Love Island especially riles viewers
  • Royal coverage triggers complaints: King Charles Coronation (8,000 complaints) Oprah with Meghan & Harry (6,500)
  • Emmerdale takes the lead as the British soap with the most complains 
  • ITV is the station with the most complaints with over 210,000, followed by TalkTV with over 20,000 and GBNews with over 17,000

So, which TV shows are the most complained about of the past 5 years? 

RankProgrammeServiceNumber of complaints (2021-2025)
1Good Morning BritainITV191,890
2Love IslandITV266,252
3Julia Hartley-BrewerTalkTV18,525
4Dan Wootton TonightGB News9,207
5King Charles III: The CoronationITV18,389
6This MorningITV7,387
7Celebrities: What’s Happened to Your Face?Channel 57,082
8Oprah with Meghan and HarryITV6,456
9I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!ITV16,203
10Jeremy VineChannel 54,982
11Big BrotherITV1 / ITV24,678
12LorraineITV4,675
13Breakfast with Kay BurleySky News3,467
14EmmerdaleITV12,405
15Vanessa51,986
16Loose WomenITV1,799
17Married at First Sight UKE41,748
18Coronation StreetITV1,348
19Lee Anderson’s Real WorldGB News1,668
20Friday Night LiveChannel 41,630
21HeadlinersGB News1,498
22Ant PayneCapital FM1,430
23Naked EducationChannel 41,413
24The Brit AwardsITV11,157
25Today with Samantha WashingtonSky News1,270

Please find the full data set of all Ofcom complaints 2021-2025, here.

Good Morning Britain has racked up nearly 92,000 Ofcom complaints, making it the most complained-about show in the UK.

2021 and 2024 stand out as the years with the highest number of complaints. The single most complained-about episode was on 8 March 2021, with 57,973 complaints, coinciding with the infamous Piers Morgan episode discussing Meghan Markle’s mental health. 

Aura Print’s research found that Good Morning Britain sees occasional explosive spikes linked to high-profile controversies, but day-to-day episodes generate around 50–300 complaints each.

Reality favourites like Love Island follow with over 66,000 complaints, proving that when drama hits the screen, Brits love to dial in. Key moments such as explosive rows, Casa Amor, movie nights, and provocative content generate the bulk of complaints for this show.

In comparison, Married at First Sight UK has generated less than 2k complaints in its run, showing that Love Island especially riles up Brits.

Second to Piers Morgan, Julia Hartley-Brewer is one of the most complained-about presenters, racking up 18,500 complaints, more than double the 9,207 complaints against GB News’ Dan Wootton. 

Some shows have sent viewers dialing like never before, particularly when the royals are involved. Coverage of King Charles III’s coronation in May 2023 triggered more than 8,000 complaints, while Oprah with Meghan and Harry received almost 6.5k complaints.

Even fan-favourite entertainment shows aren’t safe. I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! and Big Brother collectively pulled in over 10,000 complaints, with moments like bug-eating trials and live evictions sending viewers into a frenzy. 

The most complained about episodes of TV in the past 5 years

ProgrammeServiceAir DateNumber of complaints (2021-2025)
Good Morning BritainITV8 + 9 March 202157,973
Love IslandITV26 August 202124763
Julia Hartley-BrewerTalkTV3 January 202415536
Dan Wootton TonightGB News26 September 20238846
Good Morning BritainITV15 August 20248419
Good Morning BritainITV15 August 20248201
Celebrities: What’s Happened to Your Face?Channel 522 April 20217082
Oprah with Meghan and HarryITV8 March 20214,398
Love IslandITV228 July 20214330
King Charles III: The CoronationITV16 May 20234165
King Charles III: The CoronationITV16 May 20234087

Leading the charge is Good Morning Britain, whose 8 March 2021 broadcast racked up a staggering 57,973 complaints, the most for any single episode in recent history.

Ofcom has since reminded broadcasters to provide timely warnings or signposting for sensitive content, especially around topics such as mental health and suicide. Their statement included:

“Mr Morgan’s comments were potentially harmful and offensive to viewers, and we recognise the strong public reaction to them. But we also took full account of freedom of expression. Under our rules, broadcasters can include controversial opinions as part of legitimate debate in the public interest, and the strong challenge to Mr Morgan from other contributors provided important context for viewers.”

Love Island’s 6 August 2021 episode received 24,763 complaints after contestant Faye Winters outburst at her interest Teddy Soares. The outburst sparked widespread viewer complaints around whether the show did enough to step in.

The most complained about TV episode of 2024 was Julia Hartley-Brewer’s TalkTV show on 3 January 2024 provoked 15,536 complaints,

Dan Wootton Tonight racked up 8,846 complaints when Laurence Fox made derogatory remarks about Ava Evans following her appearance on the BBC’s Politics Live, calling her “pathetic and embarrassing” and questioning her appeal to men.

STV cuts: Culture Secretary ‘deeply concerned’ over proposed cuts to news provision

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson has written to STV’s Chief Executive Rufus Radcliffe expressing concerns over the company’s cost saving plans and the impact these would have for its Aberdeen newsroom.

In the letter, Mr Robertson said STV is an important part of Scottish identity and culture and has a key role to play in Scottish broadcasting.

Angus Roberson said: “I recognise that STV is facing challenging financial circumstances and working to adapt to a changing environment, however I am deeply concerned that these moves will see significant reductions in news provision and public service broadcasting in Scotland.

“The sustainability of quality news from reliable sources is crucial in the fight against false or misleading information. It is alarming to see decisions to reduce services and resources of news provision across the country, particularly given STV’s public service commitments to invest in news and help tackle misinformation.

“It is also a worrying step backwards when we are seeing these trends throughout the sector in response to advertising downturns and financial challenges.

“While the STV’s internal organisation is a matter for the STV and its Board, the Scottish Government is concerned by proposals that put sustainable Scottish jobs and the outputs of STV services at risk.

“I will continue to champion stronger journalism and a Scottish broadcasting sector and urge STV against any decisions that would result in further reduction in news reporting in Scotland, redundancies of Scottish-based staff and erosion of trust in STV’s operations and output in Scotland.”

Angus Robertson’s letter to Rufus Radcliffe on STV’s cost saving plans:

Dear Rufus,

I would like to thank you for taking the time to write to me and set out this important update on cost saving plans following STV’s interim financial results.

As a Scottish-based public service broadcaster, STV is an important part of Scottish identity and culture and it has a key role to play in Scottish broadcasting.

I recognise that STV is facing challenging financial circumstances and working to adapt to a changing environment, however I am deeply concerned that these moves will see significant reductions in news provision and public service broadcasting in Scotland.

The sustainability of quality news from reliable sources is crucial in the fight against false or misleading information. It is alarming to see decisions to reduce services and resources of news provision across the country, particularly given STV’s public service commitments to invest in news and help tackle misinformation.

It is also a worrying step backwards when we are seeing these trends throughout the sector in response to advertising downturns and financial challenges.

While the STV’s internal organisation is a matter for the STV and its Board, the Scottish Government is concerned by proposals that put sustainable Scottish jobs and the outputs of STV services at risk.

I will continue to champion stronger journalism and a Scottish broadcasting sector and urge STV against any decisions that would result in further reduction in news reporting in Scotland, redundancies of Scottish-based staff and erosion of trust in STV’s operations and output in Scotland.

I welcome the opportunity of a meeting to discuss these important points and to hear more about how STV plans to deliver better for Scotland.

Yours sincerely,

Angus Robertson

NUJ condemns large-scale job cuts at STV

The NUJ has condemned plans announced by STV to make 60 redundancies and significant changes to coverage following a disappointing financial statement to the City.

STV are the current licence holders for the two Channel 3 licences not owned by ITV, which cover central and north of Scotland. They currently employ around 650 staff, including 90 journalists working from their Glasgow headquarters, as well as Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Dundee.

In a meeting with management today (Thursday), staff at the Scottish broadcaster were told that there will be significant job cuts, with a single 6pm news programme across the two STV licences. At the moment STV Central broadcasts from Glasgow, and STV North broadcasts from Aberdeen. 

Nick McGowan-Lowe, NUJ national organiser for Scotland, said: ““These are devastating cuts – not just affecting hard working local journalists, but for STV viewers generally, particularly those in the north of Scotland who will face seeing much loved local coverage axed. 

“While there is no doubt that STV faces financial pressures and a decline of studio productions, none of that can be blamed on the hard-working journalists at STV News, whose work online and on the news bulletins, including the flagship News at 6, regularly outperforms their competitors. 

“These proposed cuts threaten the high quality of local and national journalism produced by STV News staff across Scotland, and we will be meeting both with our members and with STV management to discuss next steps in opposing these cuts and protecting jobs and quality journalism.”

BBC ALBA to show champions Corstorphine as Scottish women’s rugby is given World Cup boost

BBC ALBA is set to feature Arnold Clark Premiership champions Corstorphine’s latest challenge in the defence of their title as they travel to play Watsonians tonight (Friday 29 August), with coverage starting at 7.30pm.

The coverage is part of BBC ALBA’s plans to show the top domestic rugby competitions in Scotland for free on TV, including both the men’s and women’s Arnold Clark Premiership finals and 12 league matches throughout the 2025/26 season.

These matches will be available live and on demand on BBC ALBA, via BBC iPlayer, on the BBC ALBA YouTube channel and on bbc.co.uk/rugbaidh, with the games available worldwide on a live and on-demand basis.

Corstorphine started the defence of their title earlier this month with a hard-fought 26-17 win away to Biggar. For Watsonian FC, they will be hoping home advantage will help them bounce back from an opening day 34-17 defeat to Stirling County.

The players of all Premiership clubs were given a free weekend last week so they could take the opportunity to travel and support Scotland’s national women’s side as they made a successful start to their Rugby World Cup campaign, beating Wales 38-8.

Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “BBC ALBA will be showing the best of Scottish women’s rugby across the season, thanks to our renewed agreement with Scottish Rugby as the popularity of the sport continues to grow.

“Interest will, of course, also be heightened across Scotland thanks to the impressive start our national team made against Wales in the Women’s Rugby World Cup.”

Watch champions Corstorphine’s trip to Watsonians tonight live or on demand on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer:

 https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002hq7g

Next Friday (5 September), Hillhead Jordanhill will play Biggar, with live coverage on BBC ALBA again beginning at 7.30pm:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002j11h

Tonight: BBC Alba’s Eòrpa investigates delays in dualling the A9

The A9 road between Perth and Inverness was originally due to be fully dualled by this year. Chronic delays have seen Scottish ministers push that back to 2035. Reporter Andrew MacKinnon hears from locals and drivers affected by this 10-year delay, alongside Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop MSP in the latest Eorpa documentary: The A9 | An A9.

Campaigners have long argued for swifter progress, citing safety concerns on a road that regularly changes from single to dual carriageway. There has been political criticism of the Scottish Govenment’s failure to deliver on their original promise.

Tragically, there has all too often been the grief and pain that accompanies the loss of a loved one on what has become a notorious stretch of road.

Ronnie Weir’s house in the village of Dowally in Perthshire is a mere 25 meters from an undualled section of the A9. In April 2017, Ronnie suffered serious leg injuries on the same stretch when a car travelling in the opposite direction hit his vehicle head on. The female driver of the other car died at the wheel.

Speaking to Eòrpa, he told how the trauma follows him to this day: “You’re always concerned whether it is near the home or anywhere because the trauma which an accident causes is horrendous.  

“Sometimes it’s difficult to speak about it because of that and it brings back memories about how insensitive some people were about the whole accident. They just wanted to keep on the road and don’t care.”

Lorry driver Elaine MacKenzie, whose job means frequent journeys up and down the section of the A9 that’s now due to be dualled by 2035, told Eòrpa: “People don’t understand that the signs say 50mph for lorries but not for cars.

“Everything slows down. Those behind me can’t get past, they get impatient, and they don’t understand that there’s people in front of me, and then they try to get past me in dangerous places. This is every day. I pray every time I go on the A9.”

Dualling is set to gather pace ahead of the 2035 deadline. Farmer Pamela Laird’s family has run East Dowally farm in Perthshire for generations. Speaking on camera for the first time about her situation, she told Eòrpa she’s set to lose a quarter of her land to the A9 under Scottish Government compulsory purchase powers.

So far she doesn’t know how much she’ll get: “We’re losing a hundred acres. In some areas they’re stripping the topsoil off and lowering it.

So it’s very invasive, very invasive. Flooding is number one worry for us. I don’t believe that the swales and suds and any mitigation that they have put into place will cope with the Tay when it is in full flow.

“I think when the river rises it’s just going to rip through everything.”

Transport Scotland told Eòrpa mitigation measures have been taken, including culverts to allow waters to drain.

The Scottish Government’s commitment is now for completion of dualling between Perth and Inverness by 2035.

Pressed on continuing safety concerns about sections yet to be dualled, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop MSP said: “Any loss of a life on the A9 or indeed other roads in Scotland is a tragedy in and of itself.

“Road safety is something as Cabinet Secretary for Transport I take extremely seriously and in terms of the A9 we’ve also invested five million pounds on interim shorter term road safety issues.

“We’re not waiting just for the dualling. The dualling in and of itself will help on road safety and that’s one of the reasons that clearly we’ve embarked on it.”

Inverness-based reporter Andrew MacKinnon: “The Scottish Government’s new deadline of 2035 can be seen as bitter-sweet. Progress is being made, and Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has given her assurances that 2035 will be met.

“However, those who point to a need for the section to be dualled for safety reasons are faced with another 10 years before that’ll be done. And those who have suffered the tragic loss of loved ones will continue to grieve.”

Eòrpa: The A9 | An A9 premieres on BBC ALBA TONIGHT Monday 25 August at 9pm, and on iPlayer from 6am the same day.

Watch live or on demand: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b006mvwb/eorpa

Balamory’s coming back!

Filming begins on new series to premiere on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer next year

  • Blending familiar faces with a host of new characters, the new series will offer preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures

CBeebies and Lion Television Scotland have released a first-look picture showing Miss Hoolie (Julie Wilson Nimmo) as filming gets underway on location in Tobermory, the real-life Isle of Mull town that inspired the show’s iconic setting.

The new series will blend familiar faces with a host of new characters, offering preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures.

At its heart remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher.

Original stars of Balamory, Julie Wilson Nimmo (Miss Hoolie), Andrew Agnew (PC Plum), Kim Tserkezie (Penny Pocket) and Juliet Cadzow (Edie McCredie) are set to reprise their roles when the revamped series airs next year on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.

The new series will blend familiar faces with a host of new characters, offering preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures. At its heart remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher.

Brand new characters include scientist and inventor Ava Potts (played by Danielle Jam), the Harbour Master (William Andrews) and local vet Dr Ollie (Carl Spencer) who lives with his two children.

Originally produced from 2002 to 2005, Balamory became a staple of early childhood entertainment. Now, more than two decades later, it’s being lovingly reimagined for today’s families, retaining its original spirit while introducing fresh elements to captivate young viewers.

Filming will take place both in studio in Glasgow and on location in Tobermory, the real-life Isle of Mull town that inspired the show’s iconic setting.

Kate Morton, Senior Head of Children’s Commissioning 0-6 BBC Children’s and Education says: “It’s wonderful to see some of the original cast returning alongside new faces, creating a perfect mix of nostalgia and discovery for families to enjoy together.

“This vibrant new series will delight both children and the grown-ups who remember it fondly.”

Commissioned for two new series (10 x 14-minute episodes each), the show will continue its tradition of home-grown storytelling about the much-loved nursery school and the small island community that surrounds it. Families can look forward to exploring the world of Balamory once again from 2026.

Produced by Lion Television Scotland, an All3Media company, the return of Balamory promises to be a joyful celebration of community, curiosity and colourful characters.

Lisa Hazlehurst, Head of Lion Television Scotland, is the Executive Producer, Adrian Mead is Director and Jacqueline Sinclair is the Series Producer. The series was commissioned by Kate Morton for BBC Children’s and Education. Mark Barton is the BBC Commissioning Executive.

Tuning into YouTube: UK’s media habits revealed

  • Gen Alpha turn to YouTube first on their TV set at home, while over 55s double their time on the service
  • Fewer than half of 16-24-year-olds watch broadcast TV weekly
  • Despite declines, traditional broadcasters’ content still makes up majority of in-home viewing

YouTube is leading the charge in the streaming takeover of TV sets, with the service now the first place younger viewers go as soon as they switch on, according to Ofcom’s annual report on the nation’s media habits.

Overall people spent an average of 4 hours 30 minutes per day watching TV and video content at home in 2024. And while broadcast TV still accounts for the majority of in-home viewing (56%), audiences are increasingly turning to YouTube. The platform is now the second most-watched service in the UK, behind the BBC and ahead of ITV.

At home, people spent 39 minutes on YouTube per day in 2024, with 16 minutes of this via the household’s TV set. Younger adults aged 16-34 are driving this trend, watching 18 minutes of YouTube a day on TV, while one in five (20%) children aged 4-15 head straight to the app as soon as they turn the set on.

But it’s not just Gen Z and Alpha driving this trend. Over 55s are now watching nearly double the amount of YouTube content on their TVs compared to the previous year (11 minutes per day in December 2024, up from just 6 minutes in January 2023).  Last year, 42% of all YouTube viewing by this age group was on a TV set (up from 33% in 2023).

YouTube content evolving

The content audiences are watching on YouTube has evolved too. Half of the platform’s top-trending videos now more closely resemble traditional TV, including long-form interviews and game shows. This shift positions YouTube as a direct competitor to ad-supported TV services, while offering broadcasters a way to reach wider and younger audiences.  

Some broadcasters are increasingly offering  their own programmes on YouTube, for example ITV and Channel 4 make full length programming available on their channels, retaining control over adverts. Ofcom has identified these sorts of partnerships, making public service content available and prominent on online platforms, as critical to sustain the future of public service media in its recent report, Transmission Critical.

Public service broadcasters (PSBs) are seeing success with their online services, especially the BBC. For the first time, people are watching more online programmes from broadcasters than they are recorded programmes.

Ed Leighton, Ofcom’s Interim Group Director for Strategy and Research, said: “Scheduled TV is increasingly alien to younger viewers, with YouTube the first port of call for many when they pick up the TV remote. But we’re also seeing signs that older adults are turning to the platform as part of their daily media diet too.

“Public service broadcasters are recognising this shift – moving to meet audiences in the online spaces where they increasingly spend their time. But we need to see even more ambition in this respect to ensure that public service media that audiences value survives long into the future.”

Generational divide

Overall, people spent 4% less time watching broadcast TV in 2024 than the previous year, with average viewing dropping to 2 hours 24 minutes a day on TV sets. This trend was particularly driven by young adults (16-24), who watched just 17 minutes of live TV daily. Only 45% of this age group tuned into broadcast TV weekly, down from 48% in 2023.

Less than a quarter of 16-24s’ in-home video viewing is now to broadcaster content, versus 90% for those aged 75 and over.

Overall, people watched content from video-on-demand platforms for an average of 40 minutes per day. Netflix continues to be the most popular service, watched for an average of 22 minutes per day, and accounting for more than half of all viewing on streaming platforms.

Festive favourites top the list of most-watched moments

But broadcasters proved they can still bring the nation together for shared major TV moments, with the BBC and ITV boasting the top three most-watched shows of 2024.  

Gavin and Stacy: The Finale (18.6 million) was the most watched programme last year, followed by Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (16.9 million), with the fourth episode of Mr Bates vs The Post Office (14.7 million) coming in third. The top two most-watched programmes both aired first on Christmas day.

The Spain v England Euro 2024 final was the most-watched live sports event of the year across the BBC, ITV and STV, with 19.8 million people tuning in on the day.

Netflix’s Adolescence was the most-watched TV event in the first quarter of 2025 with 12.2 million viewers until the end of March. This marked the first time a streaming title topped weekly TV ratings [2]. 

Picture2Podcasts eat up audio diets

Our Media Nations Report also has its ear to the ground on how the nation’s listening habits are evolving. More than nine in ten UK adults (93%) listen to some form of audio content each week, increasing to 98% of 16-34-year-olds. YouTube (47%) and Spotify (36%) are the most popular online audio services, while BBC Sounds is the most popular from a radio broadcaster (24%).

Music streaming and podcasts continue to be an important part of our audio diets, particularly for younger people. People aged 15-34 now spend more than half of their weekly listening time with streamed music and podcasts (58%, up from 40% in 2019), which is close to double the amount for the average listener (30%) [3].

Podcasts are also increasingly available in video as well as audio form. Platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, and Global Player now regularly host video versions of UK podcasts, helping creators engage with broader audiences.

More top trends from our Media Nations reports are available on our news centre.

BBC ALBA celebrates 21 years of Belladrum with exclusive coverage

BBC ALBA is bringing the best of The Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival to viewers, live from the Belladrum Estate in Kiltarlity across the weekend (from Thursday 31 July to Saturday 2 August).

Presenters Fiona MacKenzie and Niall Iain MacDonald will lead audiences through the festival with exclusive coverage featuring live performances from established and emerging artists.

Known for its unique and diverse showcase of music and the arts, Belladrum attracts tens of thousands of visitors, and this year is no exception with headliners including Texas, Supergrass and Paul Heaton.

Other chart-topping acts set to perform, and appear on BBC ALBA, across the weekend include Tom Walker, Natasha Bedingfield, Example and The Hoosiers. And Scottish artists are well represented with folk rock and pop favourites Skipinnish, Kassidy, Rianne Downey and Tide Lines.

The 2025 festival will also provide a platform for local musicians building a name for themselves, including 17 year old swing singer Michael Lewis from Newtonmore, who has recently secured a musical residency at a renowned music venue in Texas, USA.

Accordion playing sensation and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist RuMac will perform on the Garden Stage, having recently made an appearance in Danny Boyle’s new film, 28 Years Later.

Kicking off the coverage on BBC ALBA will be Falasgair – the six-piece up-and-coming contemporary trad band who won this year’s Belladrum Tartan Hearts Festival talent search.

The band, who hail from Skye and take their name from the Gaelic word for seasonal heather burning, will take to the Belladrum main stage from 4pm on Thursday 31 July with their high-energy take on traditional Scottish music. 

Belladrum 24. BBC ALBA Pics Trevor Martin

Ahead of their Belladrum debut, Finn MacPherson of Falasgair, said: “Having attended Belladrum quite a few times since I was young, I never thought I’d see myself on the main stage playing alongside my pals so it’s a pretty surreal feeling.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for us — we couldn’t have done it without the amazing support from our family, friends, and the local community. It really shows the strength of the music scene here.

“This has come at a great time for us a band as we’re recording our debut album and will release it later this year. We’re looking forward to kicking off the festival in a traditional manner – with the pipes!”

Belladrum talent search judge Robert Robertson, lead singer of Tide Lines who are due to perform on Saturday, added: “It’s brilliant that the festival will be opened by a young, island band playing traditional music with such dynamism and energy – they will have the place bouncing!”

True to its longstanding support of Scottish artists, BBC ALBA supported the search which provides a platform to propel newcomers into the country’s celebrated music scene.

Calum McConnell, commissioning editor at BBC ALBA, said: “Falasgair are a brilliant, young traditional band whose star is definitely on the rise and we’re proud to support emerging talent like this as part of our wider Belladrum partnership.

“This year’s coverage promises to capture the colour, energy and incredible talent that makes this festival so special. From headline sets to hidden gems, BBC ALBA will bring audiences at home the very best of Belladrum 2025 live across the weekend and on demand on BBC iPlayer. Whether you’re tuning in for the trad, the pop or something a little different, it’s going to be an unforgettable few days.”

Belladrum festival producer, Dougie Brown, said: “Belladrum is more than just a music festival — it’s a celebration of creativity, community and culture, all set against the stunning Highland backdrop.

“We’re marking our 21st birthday with a line-up that brings together household names, rising stars and a few surprises along the way so whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth, there’s always something new to discover.

“And with BBC ALBA bringing the magic to screens across the country, even more people can share in the Belladrum buzz.”

For those unable to attend, tune into BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer for its live annual coverage with exclusive broadcasts across the weekend.

Watch live or on demand from Thursday 31 July: Belladrum on BBC ALBA