In a recent speech, Lindsay Salt, the BBC drama boss, raised concerns about the current state of the television industry, suggesting that we have transitioned from a period of “peak TV” to one of “peak caution.” She highlighted the shift in commissioning practices, citing a tendency towards safe bets and risk aversion among buyers and executives. Salt expressed her ambition to reshape the drama landscape in response to what she sees as a critical time for the industry.
Salt pointed to several key factors that have contributed to this era of “peak caution,” including inflation, content and platform saturation, retrenchment, and the writers’ strike. These challenges have led buyers to adopt a more cautious approach, focusing on established formulas rather than taking creative risks. Salt’s assessment suggests a growing reluctance to venture into uncharted territory, marking a departure from the experimental spirit that characterized the industry just a few years ago.
One of Salt’s priorities for drama is redefining British “state of the nation” storytelling. She criticized the genre for becoming stagnant and outdated, emphasizing the need for more playful and messy narratives that capture the complexities of contemporary society. Salt highlighted the importance of character development, calling for a shift away from flashy concepts towards nuanced and compelling portrayals. She emphasized the importance of creating iconic characters that resonate with audiences and stand the test of time.
Salt positioned the BBC as a beacon of creativity and innovation in an era marked by caution and conformity. She urged producers and creatives to push boundaries and embrace the unknown, emphasizing the importance of taking creative risks. Salt’s vision for the BBC involves challenging the status quo and fostering a culture of experimentation and bold storytelling. She underscored the value of real risk-taking as a means of driving the industry forward and paving the way for new and exciting narratives.
Salt’s speech serves as a rallying cry for the television industry to break free from the constraints of “peak caution” and embrace a spirit of creativity and daring. She called on producers, writers, and executives to prioritize innovation and originality, pushing the boundaries of what is considered conventional or safe. Salt’s vision for the future of TV drama is one that celebrates risk-taking, character development, and storytelling that reflects the complexities of the modern world. As the landscape of television continues to evolve, Salt’s message resonates as a reminder of the transformative power of bold and daring storytelling.