BBC Must Rediscover Appetite for Risk, Producer Warns

Jan de Vries · 2026-07-01

Pip Burley, the producer behind hit shows like *Darling Buds of May* and *A Touch of Frost*, has a clear message for the BBC: it's time to take risks again. In a world where streaming services dominate, Burley argues that the broadcaster must back bold storytelling and creative courage to stay relevant. ### Why Risk Matters Now The BBC has a long history of groundbreaking TV. But Burley warns that playing it safe could be its downfall. "If we don't take chances," she says, "we lose the magic that makes British television special." - Streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon are investing heavily in unique, daring content. - Audiences crave fresh stories, not just reboots or safe bets. - The BBC's public funding gives it a unique freedom to experiment. ### The Cost of Playing It Safe Burley points out that when broadcasters avoid risk, they end up with predictable shows that blend into the background. "Viewers have endless choices now," she explains. "If you're not offering something different, they'll click away." She's seen this firsthand. *Darling Buds of May* was a gamble — a gentle, rural comedy that didn't fit the typical mold. It became a massive hit. *A Touch of Frost* took a similar leap, focusing on a detective who was more human than heroic. Both shows proved that risk pays off. ### What Bold Storytelling Looks Like For Burley, bold doesn't mean expensive. It means honest, original, and emotionally resonant. "It's about trusting your writers and letting them explore ideas that might fail," she says. "Failure is part of the process." She suggests the BBC could: - Commission more experimental pilots before committing to full series. - Give creators more creative control, even on big-budget shows. - Embrace diverse voices and perspectives that challenge the norm. ### A Lesson from the Streaming Era The streaming giants have changed everything. They've shown that audiences will follow great stories anywhere. Burley believes the BBC can compete, but only if it stops trying to imitate the competition and starts leading again. "We have the talent, the history, and the resources," she says. "What we need is the nerve." ### The Bottom Line Burley's warning isn't just about one broadcaster. It's a reminder for all content creators: in a crowded market, safety is the real risk. The BBC must rediscover its appetite for risk — or risk becoming irrelevant. For professionals in the US watching the European media landscape, this is a case study in how legacy institutions can adapt to disruption. The principles apply beyond TV: whether you're launching a startup or building a brand, boldness often beats caution.