BBC Drama Boss Lindsay Salt Aims to Reshape the Drama Landscape Amidst ‘Peak Caution’
In a recent address to producers and press, Lindsay Salt, the BBC drama boss, expressed her desire to reshape the drama landscape during what she referred to as the era of “peak caution.” Salt acknowledged that the industry has transitioned from the era of “peak TV” to one characterized by hesitancy and risk aversion. She highlighted the prevalence of short-term thinking and the absence of bold investments that were once common during the boom era.
Salt attributed this shift in the industry to various factors, including financial pressures, commercial imperatives, inflation, content and platform saturation, and the writers’ strike. These circumstances have led buyers to retreat into cautious commissioning spaces and default to safe bets. She contrasted the current climate with that of just five years ago when industry players were more willing to make brave choices and experiment with unorthodox ideas.
The BBC drama boss used her address as an opportunity to outline her vision for the future. She emphasized the importance of the BBC in leading the way during this period of peak caution. Salt expressed her hope that, in five years’ time, the BBC would have a record of risk-taking that reshaped the drama landscape. As a former Netflix scripted commissioner who took over from Piers Wenger 18 months ago, Salt is determined to push boundaries and venture into creative unknowns.
Salt outlined three priorities for drama: currency, character, and empathy. She aimed to redefine British “state of the nation” drama, which she believes has become outdated and associated with shows that are earnest or overloaded with messages. Salt argued that series like “I May Destroy You” or “This is Going to Hurt,” which she described as “playful” and “messy,” can be just as representative of the state of the nation as more traditional examples like “Our Friends in the North.” She highlighted her new commission, James Graham’s “Dear England,” starring Joseph Fiennes as England soccer manager Gareth Southgate, as an example of this redefinition.
Regarding character, Salt criticized the industry for prioritizing flashy concepts over true characterization in recent years. She expressed her desire to redress this imbalance and discover the next generation of iconic characters, citing examples like Tommy Shelby from “Peaky Blinders” and Catherine Cawood from “Happy Valley.”
Salt concluded her address by emphasizing the unique support and freedom that creatives receive from the BBC. She believes that these moments of collaboration and empowerment are what make the team at the BBC most proud.
In a time of peak caution, Lindsay Salt’s ambition to reshape the drama landscape is a refreshing and much-needed perspective. With her focus on currency, character, and empathy, she aims to redefine the state of the nation drama and create iconic characters that resonate with audiences. As the BBC takes on the role of risk-taker in today’s cautious landscape, it sets itself apart as a beacon of innovation and creativity.
