These days it's very easy to watch TV shows via the internet, so most people with a certain level of technical skill can feast their eyes on most of the top US and UK shows, hours after they premiere in their native countries. I think UK broadcasters do a great job importing US shows, and these days the US manage to air more UK content than ever before (thanks to the rise of BBC America, primarily). But, there are still blind spots...
Which TV shows would you really like to see, that haven't made it to your country's airwaves yet? It doesn't have to be a show you're already downloading and just upset it doesn't get shown where you live, it can be something you know you'd love to sample but don't get the opportunity.
For me, living in the UK, I'm puzzled that Community hasn't been acquired by a broadcaster here (it's perfect for Sky or Channel 4, right?), and I hear good things about Parks & Recreation, too. I guess not everything can be imported, but it does seem strange that smaller digital channels haven't snapped those up. I guess there are limits, or UK TV would just be wall-to-wall US content if everything was imported.
What about you? Wherever you live, are there any foreign shows you're eager to watch that aren't being purchased by TV channels? Or do you find it doesn't matter because you can download what appeals to you? I know many Americans watch The IT Crowd and Being Human via download, rather than wait. Likewise Doctor Who, even though BBC America were only a fortnight behind the UK this year.
It would be especially interesting to hear from readers in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, South America, Asia or Africa -- if any are reading. What's the situation like there with nationally broadcast foreign programming? Or maybe you're glad your networks are more focused on homegrown shows?
Friday 13 August 2010
