Netflix Surpasses BBC One in UK Viewership for First Time
The streaming giant edged past the traditional broadcaster in fall 2024, but BBC One reclaimed the top spot during December's festive programming.
- Netflix recorded a reach of 43.2 million viewers from September to November 2024, surpassing BBC One's 42.3 million for the first time.
- BBC One regained the lead in December with 48.4 million viewers, driven by Christmas hits like Gavin & Stacey and Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.
- BBC officials argue that comparing a single broadcast channel to Netflix's expansive on-demand library is misleading in today's viewing landscape.
- Younger audiences are increasingly shifting away from traditional TV, with less than half of Gen Z viewers watching broadcast TV weekly in 2024, according to Ofcom.
- Netflix's growing dominance reflects broader trends in the UK, as streaming services continue to outpace traditional broadcasters in reach and investment.