Britain has a fascinating relationship with talent shows. Over the last thirty years, we have witnessed the format transition from a casual way to spend a Friday evening to being a staple of British culture itself. The television talent show has now more than earned its right to stand alongside a cup of tea, Doctor Who, a Sunday roast and the ever consistent Saturday 3pm kick off when it comes to all things British.
British talent shows have somehow managed to transcend all boundaries of what a television programme is meant to be. While some shows hope to measure their success based on ratings or by becoming the topic of the Monday morning water cooler conversation, talent shows have left no stone unturned and are now commonly the main point of focus at the dinner table, the pub and the news.
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A British Obsession
Perhaps what is so intriguing is that the British infatuation with talent shows is not just restricted to one particular type, topic or style of show. Instead, upon further inspection, it is clear that it is the format itself which appeals to so many. This is reflected in the fact that it is a combination of singing, cooking, dancing and even pottery contests, as well as a host of others, that have won the hearts of both young and old throughout Britain.
Their popularity can also been seen by the fact that many of the most loved shows have made their way into other avenues with equal success. For example, the Britain’s Got Talent slot game is the perfect example of the fact that when it comes to talent shows, the British public want more! You can find all the information here regarding the TV show themed game!
So, what exactly is is about talent shows that Brits love so much? Well, let’s take a closer look at why, when it comes to talent shows, the Brits find it next to impossible to look away…
Relatability
If we take four of the most popular television talent shows in Britain, Britain’s’ Got Talent, The X Factor, The Voice UK and The Great British Bake Off, despite all clearly being different shows, they all have one very important aspect in common. What is it you ask? Well, the people front and centre of all of these shows are real.
This in itself comes as a well needed break from the 24 hour celebrity based news cycle that we are all too familiar living with in the digital age. It is why the conversation surrounding these shows is so engaging for the British people, because it is about British people. It features real, everyday folks from all walks of life, who are all hoping to achieve their dreams.
When we decide to tune in, we can all either imagine ourselves in their position or feel a real connection to the person on screen. Simply put, it is the fact that the individuals featured in these shows are genuine and relateable that the talent show format has cut through the market and had such an affect on the people of Britain.
The Emotion of an Underdog Story
Who doesn’t love a good old fashioned underdog story? As we have already analysed, the fact these shows include real people at the heart of them means that we cant help but route for them. It has even been scientifically proven that we are hardwired to root for the underdog!
Over the years, British talent shows have turned from purely talent based shows to quasi-documentary style productions, in which we truly get a sense of who the people are. We bear witness to their life stories, struggles and hardships, resulting in a true emotional connection being formed. This approach truly opened up the window to a whole new world of possibilities when it comes to the format and the British public couldn’t help but get involved.
Participation
While it may appear obvious, the fact that many of these talent shows allow the public to actually determine the winner has meant that watching them is no longer a passive activity. It puts the British people in a position where they can actually impact what they are watching.
Sitting down and watching a talent show is no longer a passive pastime. It is what makes the conversation around these shows so electrifying, because in a way, when we have these debates with our friends and family, we are all hoping to convince each other to vote for who we think is best. Basically, it matters more because you actually get to have your say and as the famous saying goes, every vote counts!
The Human Touch
In conclusion the Brits have fallen in love with talent shows because they have struck a chord with them as people. They allow the public to see one another on a human level, to get a sense of the possibilities life can hold and, often helps remind us that we can all overcome whatever roadblocks we may face in our lives in order to achieve our dreams. While the overall popularity of talent shows may fluctuate, it appears that this is one British love affair that will stick around for years to come!