News Broadcasting
BBC One maintains position as most watched channel in the UK
MUMBAI: The beeb is going from strength to strength in the UK. Viewing figures for the end of the Broadcasters’ Audience Research Board (Barb) year reveal that BBC One has maintained its position as the most watched television channel while increasing its reach amongst the UK viewing population.
BBC One’s average audience share for all hours was 25.6 per cent, BBC Two’s was 11 per cent and both BBC Three and BBC Four saw significant increases in their audience share.
BBC Three saw an increase of 43 per cent (compared to BBC Choice’s audience last year). BBC Four’s yearly average increased by 50 per cent. It was especially strong in the last quarter of the year seeing an increase of 86 per cent year on year. BBC One’s reach increased by more than two per cent to 83.3 per cent.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
