Actress and writer discusses the current state of TV production and the role of the BBC in her career
Meera Syal, the celebrated actress and writer, has expressed concerns about the diminishing risk-taking in TV commissioning. The 62-year-old, best known for co-creating and starring in Goodness Gracious Me and for her role in The Kumars At No 42, reflected on the changing landscape of TV production during an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s The Media Show.
Syal stated that TV bosses are now less inclined to take risks on new, potentially groundbreaking projects. “The risk-taking has gone,” she noted, adding that many creative ideas are dismissed because they don’t fit the current “remit” of broadcasters, which she humorously questioned, wondering if “remit” might be another word for “algorithm.”
She explained how the current climate, shaped by budgetary constraints and cautious decision-making, means that many innovative ideas are not being explored. In contrast, Syal reminisced about the 1970s era of classic comedies, a time when the environment was more conducive to creativity, even if some of the content would not be acceptable by today’s standards.
“I think now the risk-taking has gone,” she continued. “People are afraid to go, ‘Well, that looks a bit out there, but let’s do a series and see.'” This shift, she argued, has made it harder for creatives to take risks and push boundaries, a sentiment she believes is detrimental to the industry.
Despite these concerns, Syal spoke fondly of the BBC, acknowledging how much it has shaped her career. She credited the broadcaster for giving her her first big breaks and expressed her loyalty to the institution, even amid criticisms. “I owe so much to the BBC. They gave me all my first breaks, really,” she said, stressing the importance of public broadcasting.
As the BBC faces challenges, including the recent £10.50 rise in the licence fee, Syal expressed hope that the next government would preserve the integrity of the institution. She noted, “I think I would rather try and improve where it is now than totally dismantle it, for sure.”
Looking forward, Syal continues to work on major projects, including appearances in Amazon’s The Wheel of Time and Apple TV+’s Roar, alongside Nicole Kidman. She was recently awarded a lifetime achievement award by the Women in Film and TV organisation and a Bafta fellowship for her contribution to the industry.
