The landscape of television programming is often a mirror reflecting the complexities of contemporary society. This was brought to light at a recent Broadcasting Press Guild event in London, where prominent figures in the industry weighed in on the cultural significance of various shows. Specifically, the discussion centered around Disney+’s “Rivals,” an adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s bestselling novel, which has garnered significant popularity despite mixed opinions from industry veterans about its merit and substance. The show’s exuberance—highlighted by scenes of naked tennis and the overall portrayal of the affluent elite—has sparked debates about taste and artistic value in modern television.
Sir Colin Callender, a respected producer known for his work on high-brow period dramas like “Wolf Hall,” was particularly vocal in expressing his skepticism regarding the appeal of “Rivals.” According to him, the mere commercial success of a show does not justify its existence in the vast expanse of media narratives. Callender’s perspective prompts viewers to question the foundations of a show’s production—is there a substantive underpinning that resonates with today’s audience, or is it merely surface-level entertainment? He emphasized the importance of exploring whether a story carries emotional truth and offers insight, rather than relying on clichéd representations or fleeting antics.
The dichotomy between works like “Rivals” and higher-brow productions highlights an innate cultural snobbery prevalent among certain sectors of the entertainment community. Producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins previously remarked on the lukewarm reception his proposal for adapting Cooper’s novel received from major networks. The dismissive attitudes he faced from BBC and ITV executives reveal a broader trend of skepticism towards material deemed less serious or unrefined. This notion of what constitutes ‘worthy’ storytelling may lead to a narrow scope of what narratives are supported, potentially alienating larger segments of the viewing audience who seek entertainment that resonates with their own experiences.
Escapism Versus Reality
An additional angle to consider is the viewer’s relationship with entertainment as an escape from reality. The increasing popularity of shows like “Rivals” might suggest a collective desire among audiences to disengage from the complexities and stresses of current global events. As Callender suggests, the capacity to “look away” from reality can be an appealing attribute of television programming. This desire for escapism isn’t inherently negative; rather, it reflects the fundamental role of entertainment in providing relief and levity amid persistent societal upheaval.
Ultimately, the discourse surrounding “Rivals” invites viewers and creators alike to ponder the balance between quality storytelling and popular appeal. While some industry titans may overlook the more frivolous aspects of entertainment as lacking substance, it is undeniable that varied tastes and preferences shape the television landscape. In striving for a more inclusive media environment, it becomes vital to acknowledge that all narratives—the whimsical and the profound—hold potential value in the realm of storytelling. Meeting the audience where they are, including their cravings for diversion and engagement, will only enrich the diversity of narratives that television can offer.