Unmissable live TV events are the most watched linear TV programmes by 18-24 year-olds throughout the UK and may hold the key to building lasting friendships, latest figures released by TV Licensing reveal.
Reality TV, award and talent shows, live sport and music, made up more than half of the top 30 most-watched TV programmes for the age group, between January 1 and August 18 2019.
Flamboyant music-fan favourite The Eurovision Song Contest – which was shown live on BBC One – came second, drawing a young audience of 0.48 million, behind ITV2’s Love Island. Meanwhile, BBC One’s live coverage of the nail-biting Women’s World Cup semi-final match between England and USA, was the most-watched sporting event, as it was watched by 0.42 million young viewers.
Despite the exploding popularity of TV streaming and catch up services, the data suggests that bonding over live national events, which are typically only available on linear TV channels, is still a priority for 18-24 year-olds.
Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Dr Siobhan McCarthy*, explained:
“Watching television shows together is a shared experience that can build a sense of community and connection, creating a form of social currency which can last in the days that follow too. This is especially important for students who may be away from their home environment for the very first time.”
“Certain television experiences create ‘events’ that give people reasons to get together, to feel close and connected to others. Sharing views together on popular television shows can also become the building blocks that make students feel comfortable to share more personal opinions and form strong friendships as a result.”
With more than 120,000** students across Wales heading to university this autumn, TV Licensing is encouraging all young people to make sure they know when a licence is needed, so they can bond over the live TV events they love without risking a fine.
The law still applies to students living away from home in halls or shared accommodation, regardless of the device they use, and a TV licence is required to watch programmes as they are being shown on TV live or when watching on BBC iPlayer.
TV Licensing spokesperson for Wales, Helen Wild, said“We know viewing habits are changing and this age group in particular are increasingly streaming, downloading, recording, using catch-up services and watching TV on mobile devices. However, these figures show that they still love the shared experience of live national events, which also generate debate and discussion on social media and amongst friends.
“There’s exciting new content hitting our screens in the autumn and we don’t want students to miss out, nor do we want them to risk prosecution and a fine, so whether they are going to be living in halls or a house-share, students should visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk/uni so they know the facts.”’
New shows coming to BBC and BBC iPlayer over the next few months include the hotly-anticipated RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, starting on BBC Three in October, and Stormzy fans have a treat lined-up on BBC One as he guest stars in an episode of the six-part Malorie Blackman drama Noughts + Crosses, a gripping story of first love in a dangerous, alternate world.
Third year Cardiff University student, Alaw Rees, added: “It doesn’t come as a surprise to me that programmes like Eurovision and Love Island are so popular among students. They provide an opportunity for everyone to come together and take their mind off the stresses of uni. Eurovision is always a favourite in our house – we make predictions on who we think will win, then allocate our own points to the performances.
“Watching fun, light-hearted TV with friends also makes you feel like you’re at home, which is comforting when you’re away from your family. Plus, these types of programmes always generate a buzz on social media, so if you don’t watch, you miss out on the inside jokes!”
The law on TV Licensing
The law states that you need to be covered by a TV licence to watch or record programmes as they’re being shown on TV, or live on an online TV service (e.g. YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Now TV, Sky Go, etc.). A licence is also need to download or watch BBC programmes on iPlayer.This applies to any device, whether it is a TV set, laptop, tablet, mobile phone or games console.
How to get a TV licence
Buying a TV licence online is quick and easy and with many students choosing to stay in with friends rather than going out, it represents great value for money. If students living in a shared house or flat have a joint tenancy agreement, then one TV Licence may cover the whole house. Go to www.tvl.co.uk for more information.
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