Lisa McGee’s now-iconic programme, Derry Girls, is fast approaching its final episode. The semi-autobiographical tale is about four teenage girls and one honorary girl (James) growing up during the troubles in Northern Ireland in the 1990s. The programme takes a comedic spin on sectarian conflicts, whilst also addressing the trials of growing up. "Derry Girls" evokes nostalgia for many, resonating with audiences both within and beyond Northern Ireland. Its universal themes touch people of various ages, capturing the essence of youthful experiences. Notably, it holds the record as the most-watched series in Northern Ireland. Additionally, the appearance of Liam Neeson in the final series' opening episode added a memorable touch. While the show's inevitable conclusion loomed due to the actresses portraying sixteen-year-olds actually being in their thirties. Its broadcast on Channel 4, a publicly-owned network, further cemented its unique place in television history.
Image courtesy of Digital Spy
Established in 1982, Channel 4 emerged as a publicly owned, commercially funded platform designed to challenge prevailing cultural narratives set forth by channels like the BBC. Unlike the BBC, Channel 4 relied solely on advertising revenue, devoid of taxpayer support. Its core mission never centred on profit generation, aiming instead to cultivate innovative content.
However, the impending move by the Tory government to privatise Channel 4 threatens its essence—its content, principles, and creative freedom. This transition, if executed, heralds a concerning shift. It could inflict severe damage on an industry already grappling with challenges. According to experts cited in The Guardian (2022), this move might precipitate the closure of approximately 60 TV production companies across the UK, exacerbating the industry's struggles.
This is not the first time a conservative government has sought to privatise the channel. Cameron’s government in 2016 were close to a privatisation bill, but, it was concluded by the House of Lords that “there [were] many more risks than benefits involved in privatisation” (Financial Times, 2022). So why now? Well, Culture secretary Nadine Dorries argues that “government ownership is holding Channel 4 back from competing against [the] streaming giants” and a change of ownership would give it “the tools and freedom to flourish and thrive”. She then went on to describe the opposition to the move as a "lazy, overwrought and ill-informed rhetoric from the Leftie luvvie lynch mob" (SkyNews, 2022)
Interestingly, opposition to this move spans across the political spectrum. While Thatcher's government established the channel to operate independently from state constraints, those who openly opposed Thatcher are also against this change. Despite this, some Tory MP’s believe that Thatcher would be “turning in her grave” if she saw the content the channel is currently producing, with Andrew Roberts describing the channel as a “left-wing Frankenstein” (The Telegraph, 2022).
The fact remains, Channel 4 continues to produce nuanced and distinct media, setting itself apart from its counterparts. Privatising the channel would significantly harm its content and unique identity. Nicola Sturgeon adds that this move would be: “cultural vandalism” (Independent, 2022). Though Sturgeons take make be attributed to the channel's recent investments and relocation of numerous productions to Glasgow. It underscores the channel's commitment to representing the diverse tapestry of Britain, not solely centered around London.
Derry Girls serves as a testament to this notion: a comedy centered around Catholic teenagers in 1990s Northern Ireland would likely not find a place on the BBC. This underscores the importance of Channel 4 remaining publicly owned. Saoirse-Monica Jackson, who portrays Erin in the show, shares concerns about the privatisation move, expressing, “I'd be really worried about undiscovered talent and the lack of that ever being brought to our forefront and being pushed. I think you need the opportunity to grow and writers need the opportunity to have comedies come out on Channel 4 and be nourished” (BBC, 2022). The majority of the actresses in Derry Girls were relatively unknown before the show—a scenario that might not have led to the show's approval on a privatised Channel 4.
Channel 4's commitment to the public is evident, and it should continue to serve the people. However, with the Tories steadfast in their pursuit of a sale, the channel's fate remains uncertain, leaving us to wait and see if its integrity will withstand the pressure.
It's a Sin - Channel 4
Sources
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2022/apr/04/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-privatisation-of-channel-4
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