British shows have significantly impacted Netflix’s top charts in 2024.
- Four out of Netflix’s ten biggest series are of UK origin this year.
- ‘Fool Me Once’ emerged as the top viewed show globally.
- Netflix has invested heavily in UK talent and production.
- UK’s entertainment industry is recognised for its global influence.
In 2024, British television series have dominated Netflix’s viewing figures, with four of the top ten most popular shows originating from the UK. This represents a significant achievement for the British entertainment industry, highlighting its global reach and the appeal of its storytelling and production values.
Fool Me Once, a drama produced by Quay Street Productions, has emerged as Netflix’s most-watched series worldwide, garnering an impressive 108 million viewers. This success underscores the production’s ability to captivate international audiences with its intricate narrative and engaging characters. Richard Fee, Executive Producer at Quay Street Productions, attributed the show’s success to their collaboration with renowned author Harlan Coben, noting its achievement as a testament to their team’s dedication and creativity.
Other British shows have also made a substantial impact, with Richard Gadd’s Baby Reindeer attracting 88 million viewers, and the Edinburgh-based One Day reaching 39 million views. These figures reflect a growing interest in British storytelling, with audiences across the globe appreciating the authenticity and unique perspectives offered by these productions.
Netflix’s investment in the UK extends beyond individual series. As co-Chief Executive Ted Sarandos highlighted at the Royal Television Society Conference, the UK is regarded as the ‘birthplace of prestige television’. The streaming giant has invested over $6 billion into the UK’s creative industry since 2020, a testament to the country’s rich pool of talent that includes writers, directors, and actors. With more than 100 productions currently active in the UK, Netflix continues to prioritise this region in its strategic plans.
Sarandos also pointedly remarked on the UK’s successful nurturing of talent, thanks to supportive public service broadcasters and competitive tax incentives that make filming in the UK particularly attractive. This ecosystem has not only fostered local talent but has also drawn international interest to British-made content, enhancing its reception worldwide.
The triumph of British series on Netflix underscores the global appeal of UK television, driven by exceptional talent and strategic investments.
