Poldark feels the royal scythe in TV turf war
THE BBC will move Poldark to a summer slot to avoid a repeat of last year’s bruising clash with ITV’s Victoria.
The two period dramas went head to head last year and Victoria emerged as the ratings winner.
Both occupied the coveted 9pm Sunday slot in September and October, months traditionally reserved for major costume drama as autumn weather brings viewers indoors.
However, the BBC is expected to announce that Poldark will be brought forward to June, ensuring viewers do not have to choose.
The BBC’s head of drama, Piers Wenger, declined to comment on scheduling decisions. But asked if Poldark would be moved, he said: “I think we’re going to put it out at a time when most people can enjoy it. A move would represent a reversal for Charlotte Moore, BBC head of content. Ms Moore said last year: “I want to put one of the most loved dramas on television in that spot, and I think it would be very wrong to move out of that.”
However, the finale of Victoria won an audience of 5.5 million. The penultimate episode of Poldark, on at the same time, drew 4.9 million.
Kevin Lygo, ITV director of programmes, has said of the clash: “You can record – there are many different ways to watch these shows. Neither of us should give up the land.”