Who decides the programmes that get exported to the U.S.?

Question

Who exactly is it that decides which programmes get exported to the U.S. from the BBC and other networks like Channel 4 and ITV and which programmes don't?
There is a lot of great stuff that hasn't even been given a R1 DVD release, much less been aired on an American channel.
Why?

Answer 1

The U.S. companies that buy them I would imagine!

And they buy based on market forces, ie. possible ratings and target audiences and therefore the potential advertising revenue.

the U.S. is such a capitalist country that they wouldn't look at something that didn't bring in millions in advertising profits, regardless of how "good" or creative it was.

Answer 2

We get most of the British shows televised on our local PBS stations. For instance, we get Masterpiece Theater or Mystery sponsored by Mobil/Exxon Oil Corporation.

The the PBS stations run telethons constantly to get more money I guess to make up for what the Corporations don't give to keep the programs on the air.

So yes as the other responders have stated, its big business here. Money Money Money

Answer 3

i have a better question, who decides the programs that get exported from the U.S , there really is some ridiculous shows on these days and most of them come from the U.S and im getting sick of it