10 Best British TV Shows to Watch Right Now
British TV shows have always been a popular choice among viewers worldwide. With a rich history of producing some of the best television programmes, British shows have a distinct flavour that is hard to resist. From drama to comedy, from crime to romance, there is something for everyone in the world of British TV.
In this article, we will explore the 10 best British TV shows of all time. These shows have not only captivated audiences in the UK, but have also gained a loyal following around the world. From long-running classics to recent hits, these shows have stood the test of time and continue to be popular among viewers of all ages. Whether you are a fan of period dramas, crime thrillers, or sitcoms, there is a British TV show out there for you. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the best TV shows that Britain has to offer.
The Evolution of British TV
Historical Landmarks in British Television
British TV has come a long way since its inception in the 1930s. One of the earliest landmarks in British television was the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, which was watched by millions of people across the country. It was one of the first events to be broadcast live on television and marked the beginning of a new era in British TV.
In the 1960s, British TV saw the rise of documentary series. Shows like “World in Action” and “Panorama” tackled hard-hitting issues and brought them to the forefront of public consciousness. These shows were revolutionary in their approach to journalism and set the standard for investigative journalism in the UK.
The 1970s saw the emergence of period drama on British TV. Shows like “Upstairs, Downstairs” and “The Onedin Line” transported viewers to a bygone era and captured the imagination of the public. These shows were instrumental in establishing British TV as a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
Influence of British TV on Global Entertainment
British TV has had a significant influence on global entertainment. The success of shows like “Doctor Who” and “Downton Abbey” have helped to cement British TV’s reputation as a purveyor of quality entertainment. These shows have been exported to countries all over the world and have garnered a huge following.
The influence of British TV can also be seen in the rise of streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. These services have invested heavily in British TV content and have helped to bring British TV to a global audience. Shows like “The Crown” and “Peaky Blinders” have been hugely successful on these platforms and have helped to establish British TV as a major player in the streaming wars.
In conclusion, British TV has come a long way since its inception in the 1930s. From the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II to the rise of period drama, British TV has established itself as a purveyor of quality entertainment. Its influence can be seen in the rise of streaming services and the global success of shows like “Doctor Who” and “Downton Abbey”.
Iconic British TV Genres
British TV has produced some of the most iconic shows in television history. From crime dramas to period dramas, British TV has something for everyone. Here are some of the most iconic British TV genres.
Crime Drama and Thrillers
British TV is known for producing some of the best crime dramas and thrillers in the world. Shows like “Broadchurch” and “Line of Duty” have captivated audiences with their gripping storylines and complex characters. These shows often tackle important social issues like sexism and racism, making them not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.
Comedy and Satire
British TV is also known for its unique brand of comedy and satire. Shows like “Fawlty Towers” and “Blackadder” have become cultural touchstones, influencing generations of comedians and writers. British comedy often uses satire to comment on social and political issues, making it both funny and insightful.
Romance and Period Dramas
British TV has also produced some of the most beloved romance and period dramas of all time. Shows like “Downton Abbey” and “Poldark” have captured the hearts of audiences around the world with their sweeping love stories and stunning visuals. These shows often explore themes of class and social status, making them both romantic and intellectually engaging.
Overall, British TV has a rich history of producing some of the most iconic shows in television history. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, comedies, or period dramas, there’s something for everyone in the world of British TV.
Groundbreaking British TV Shows
British television has produced some of the most innovative and captivating shows in the world. This section highlights a few of the most groundbreaking British TV shows of all time.
Black Mirror
Created by Charlie Brooker, Black Mirror is a dystopian science-fiction anthology series that has received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking and often unsettling stories. The show explores the dark side of technology and its impact on society. It has been praised for its originality, writing, and direction.
Broadchurch
Broadchurch is a crime drama series created by Chris Chibnall. Starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman, the show follows the investigation of a young boy’s murder in a small coastal town. The show’s realistic portrayal of grief, loss, and community has won it numerous awards and critical acclaim.
Fleabag
Created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag is a comedy-drama series that explores the life of a young woman in London. The show has been praised for its writing, direction, and Waller-Bridge’s performance as the titular character. Fleabag has won numerous awards, including six Primetime Emmy Awards.
The Crown
The Crown is a historical drama series created by Peter Morgan. The show follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, from her accession to the throne in 1952 to the present day. The show’s attention to detail, writing, and performances, particularly by Claire Foy and Olivia Colman, have won it critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Downton Abbey
Created by Julian Fellowes, Downton Abbey is a period drama series set in the early 20th century. The show follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. The show’s attention to detail, writing, and performances have won it critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Doctor Who
Doctor Who is a science-fiction series that has been running since 1963. The show follows the adventures of the Doctor, a time-traveling alien who travels through time and space in a spaceship called the TARDIS. The show has been praised for its originality, writing, and performances, particularly by Jodie Whittaker and Michaela Coel.
These groundbreaking British TV shows have left a lasting impact on the television industry and continue to be celebrated by audiences and critics alike.
British TV Shows in the International Market
British TV shows have always been popular in the international market. With the rise of streaming services like Netflix, British TV shows have gained even more popularity. In this section, we will explore the role of Netflix in British TV distribution and the global impact of British TV productions.
Netflix’s Role in British TV Distribution
Netflix has been instrumental in bringing British TV shows to a global audience. The streaming giant has invested heavily in British productions and has even set up a production hub at Shepperton Studios in the UK. This has led to a surge in the number of British TV shows available on the platform.
Netflix’s investment in British TV shows has also led to the creation of some of the most popular shows of recent years. Shows like “The Crown”, “Peaky Blinders”, and “Sex Education” have all been produced by Netflix and have gained a huge following around the world.
Global Impact of British TV Productions
British TV productions have had a significant impact on the global entertainment industry. British shows are known for their high production values, compelling storylines, and talented actors. This has led to a loyal fanbase around the world.
British TV shows have also been influential in shaping the entertainment industry. Shows like “Doctor Who” and “Sherlock” have inspired countless imitators and have helped to redefine what is possible in television.
In conclusion, British TV shows have had a significant impact on the global entertainment industry. With the help of streaming services like Netflix, these shows have gained an even wider audience. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, it is clear that British TV productions will continue to play an important role.
Influential Figures in British TV
Actors and Actresses
British TV has produced some of the most talented actors and actresses in the world. Among the most influential figures in British TV are Olivia Colman, David Tennant, Maggie Smith, Benedict Cumberbatch, Helen Mirren, and Judi Dench. These actors have won numerous awards and have been recognized for their exceptional talent and contribution to the industry.
Olivia Colman has been one of the most prominent actresses in British TV in recent years. She has won multiple awards for her performances in shows like Broadchurch and The Crown. David Tennant has also been a prominent figure in British TV, having starred in popular shows like Doctor Who and Broadchurch.
Maggie Smith, Benedict Cumberbatch, Helen Mirren, and Judi Dench are all veteran actors who have been in the industry for decades. They have starred in numerous shows and films, and have won multiple awards for their exceptional performances.
Writers and Creators
In addition to actors and actresses, British TV has also produced some of the most talented writers and creators in the industry. Among the most influential figures in British TV are Ricky Gervais, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Charlie Brooker, Sharon Horgan, and Rob Delaney.
Ricky Gervais is a multi-talented writer, actor, and comedian who has created some of the most popular TV shows of all time, including The Office and Extras. Phoebe Waller-Bridge is another talented writer and actress who has created and starred in shows like Fleabag and Killing Eve.
Charlie Brooker is a writer and producer who is best known for creating the dystopian TV series Black Mirror, which has been highly acclaimed for its thought-provoking and unsettling themes. Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney are the creators of the hit comedy series Catastrophe, which has been praised for its sharp writing and witty dialogue.
Overall, these influential figures in British TV have made a significant impact on the industry and have inspired many others to pursue careers in acting, writing, and producing.
Cultural Themes in British TV Shows
British TV shows have always been known for their unique and captivating storylines that explore various cultural themes. From exploring social issues to representation of race and gender, British TV shows have been at the forefront of addressing important topics that are often ignored by mainstream media.
Exploring Social Issues
Many British TV shows have been praised for their ability to tackle social issues in a nuanced and sensitive manner. Shows like “Sex Education” and “I May Destroy You” have been lauded for their portrayal of sexual assault and the impact it has on the victims. These shows have been instrumental in starting important conversations around consent and the importance of seeking help in such situations.
Moreover, shows like “Skins” and “This is England” have explored the lives of teenagers and the challenges they face while growing up. These shows have been praised for their realistic portrayal of teenage life and the issues that come with it, such as peer pressure, mental health, and drug abuse.
Representation of Race and Gender
British TV shows have also been at the forefront of addressing issues related to race and gender. Shows like “I May Destroy You” and “Top Boy” have been praised for their representation of black characters and their experiences. These shows have been instrumental in highlighting the issues of racism and discrimination that black people face in their daily lives.
Similarly, shows like “Doctor Who” and “Broadchurch” have been praised for their portrayal of strong female characters. These shows have been instrumental in breaking down gender stereotypes and promoting gender equality.
In conclusion, British TV shows have been instrumental in addressing important cultural themes and starting important conversations around social issues, race, and gender. These shows have been able to capture the attention of audiences around the world and have been praised for their nuanced and sensitive portrayal of important issues.
Popular British TV Show Settings
Fictional Universes
British TV shows are known for their unique and captivating fictional universes. One such example is Moordale Secondary School, the setting of the hit show “Sex Education”. The show explores the lives of teenagers navigating their way through puberty, relationships, and sexuality. The school is located in a fictional town in Wales, which adds to the charm of the show.
Another popular fictional universe is the world of “Doctor Who”. The show is set in a universe where time and space can be traveled through, with the Doctor being the main protagonist. The show has been running for over 50 years and has gained a cult following around the world.
Historical and Modern Britain
British TV shows also often explore historical and modern Britain. One such example is “Victoria”, which explores the life of Queen Victoria during her reign. The show is set in the 19th century and accurately portrays the politics, society, and culture of the time.
Another example is “Derry Girls”, which explores the lives of teenagers growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The show is set in the 1990s and accurately portrays the political and social tensions of the time.
Yorkshire is also a popular setting for British TV shows, with its rugged landscapes and unique culture. One such example is “Last Tango in Halifax”, which explores the lives of two widowed septuagenarians who rekindle their romance after 60 years apart. The show is set in Yorkshire and accurately portrays the local culture and customs.
In conclusion, British TV shows offer a wide range of settings, from fictional universes to historical and modern Britain. These settings are often accurately portrayed and add to the charm and appeal of the shows.
The Future of British TV
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, so does the world of British TV. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of streaming services available in the UK, which has led to a rise in the production and consumption of TV shows. The future of British TV looks bright, with emerging trends and genres that are set to shape the industry in the coming years.
Emerging Trends and Genres
One of the emerging trends in British TV is the rise of gritty crime dramas. Shows like “Line of Duty” and “Bodyguard” have been hugely successful in recent years, with their complex storylines and compelling characters. Another trend is the popularity of period dramas, such as “Downton Abbey” and “Peaky Blinders”. These shows transport viewers to a different time and place, with their attention to detail and stunning cinematography.
Another genre that is gaining popularity is the reality TV show. While reality TV has been around for decades, shows like “Love Island” and “The Great British Bake Off” have taken the genre to new heights. These shows have become cultural phenomena, with millions of viewers tuning in each week to see what happens next.
The Role of Technology in TV Production
Technology has played a significant role in the production of TV shows in recent years. Advancements in CGI and special effects have made it possible to create stunning visuals that were once impossible to achieve. This has led to a rise in the number of fantasy and sci-fi shows, such as “Game of Thrones” and “Doctor Who”.
Streaming services have also had a significant impact on the TV industry. With the rise of services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, viewers now have access to a vast library of shows and movies. This has led to an increase in the production of original content, with streaming services commissioning their own shows and movies.
In conclusion, the future of British TV looks bright, with new trends and genres emerging all the time. With the continued development of technology and the rise of streaming services, there has never been a better time to be a fan of British TV.
How to Access British TV Shows
If you’re a fan of British TV shows, there are several ways to access them, whether you’re in the UK or abroad. Here are some of the most popular options:
Streaming Services
One of the easiest ways to access British TV shows is through streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BritBox. These services offer a wide range of British TV shows, from classic comedies like “Fawlty Towers” to modern dramas like “Bodyguard”.
Netflix, for example, has a dedicated section for British TV shows, which includes popular titles like “Peaky Blinders”, “The Crown”, and “Black Mirror”. Similarly, Amazon Prime offers a range of British TV shows, including “Downton Abbey”, “Doctor Who”, and “Broadchurch”. BritBox, on the other hand, is a dedicated British TV streaming service that offers a wide range of classic and modern British TV shows, including “Coronation Street”, “EastEnders”, and “Killing Eve”.
International Broadcasting
Another way to access British TV shows is through international broadcasting. Many British TV shows are broadcast internationally, either through cable or satellite TV, or through online streaming services.
For example, the BBC has a dedicated international channel, BBC World News, which broadcasts news, documentaries, and a range of British TV shows to audiences around the world. Similarly, ITV has an international channel, ITV Choice, which broadcasts a range of British TV shows, including “Emmerdale”, “Coronation Street”, and “Victoria”.
Overall, there are many ways to access British TV shows, whether you’re in the UK or abroad. By using streaming services or international broadcasting, you can easily enjoy your favourite British TV shows from the comfort of your own home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the British TV industry has produced some of the most captivating and entertaining shows in recent years. From the gripping crime dramas to the hilarious comedies, there is something for everyone.
The 10 shows listed above are just a small sample of the quality programming that British television has to offer. Each show has its unique style, storyline, and characters, making them a must-watch for any TV enthusiast.
Whether you are in the mood for a heartwarming story like “Downton Abbey” or a thrilling crime drama like “Line of Duty,” British TV has got you covered. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the best of British television.