Channel 5 was the highest-gaining terrestrial channel in 2021 in terms of individuals viewing and ABC1 viewers, as well as growing its free-to-air portfolio.
According to BARB data, 2021 was the channel’s strongest year since 2009, thanks largely to its share of primetime viewing increasing 11 per cent year-on-year between 7 and 11pm; a higher margin than any other public service broadcaster.
Other findings from BARB included:
- Channel 5’s share of viewing increased by 5 per cent year-on-year
- ABC1 viewing was up 7 per cent for the channel
- The free-to-air digital portfolio grew by 5 per cent
- 7pm and 8pm timeslots had highest ever year for share of viewing, up 14 per cent and 13 per cent respectively
The channel also reported strong performance over Christmas, its highest festive fortnight since 2005, claiming a 5.23 per cent viewer share.
VoD platform My5 also saw its best performance for the second consecutive year, with a 36 per cent year-on-year uplift in streams and 31 per cent year-on-year uplift in time spent viewing; The Drowning was the best performing title in the platform’s history.
“I’m pleased that 2021 was Channel 5’s best year ever, with success on the linear channel mirrored on My5,” said Ben Frow, director of programmes, ViacomCBS Networks UK. “We’ve built on our factual successes and reached new viewers by continuing to elevate our drama slate, with stand-out shows like All Creatures Great & Small driving ratings success.
“It’s clear that a combination of drama, alongside talent-led factual programmes taking viewers to places they want to see, is proving to be a winning formula.”
