Why are British television series/seasons shorter than North American ones?

Question

British series typically have 13 or fewer episodes, while North American usually have 20 or more.

British series typically have 13 or fewer episodes, while North American usually have 20 or more.

I don't mean "shorter" length-wise per episode. I mean - over a full year- why are there fewer episodes per season?

Answer 1

sadly it's because they are less into stretching a hit until it jumps the shark and squeezing every last penny of advertising dollars out of it and more into telling good stories.

Although the better North American shows: Sopranos, the Shield, The Wire, Deadwood, Rescue Me, Nip Tuck....basically the good shows on HBO, Showtime and FX have the shorter 13 episode seasons as well. All of which don't rely on prime time major network advertising $$$.

Answer 2

I think it's because the Brits got better things to do than watch television

I like history and if i was able to hop in my car and take a train to the battlefields of France Id never be home

Answer 3

Smaller budgets is my guess. American series have loads more cash ploughed into them, - look at Dallas, my all-time favorite.

Answer 4

Im sorry i cant answer that but its a good question though!

Answer 5

I say it is because americans are more addicted to tv

Answer 6

Less adverts - more telly