BBC viewers plan to ‘switch off’ over ‘rubbish’ Christmas Day schedule: ‘Not one thing appeals’

BBC viewers have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the broadcaster’s Christmas Day schedule, with many threatening to switch off or move to alternative channels.

The festive line-up, which includes a mix of children’s films, family entertainment and traditional favourites, has received a lukewarm response from the public.

Viewers have taken to social media to voice their disappointment, with some declaring they will abandon BBC One in favour of ITV or streaming services.

The criticism comes despite the broadcaster’s offering of both new content and beloved shows, including a new Wallace and Gromit film and the final episode of Gavin and Stacey.

Many have claimed the programming lacks the special quality traditionally associated with Christmas Day television, leading to calls for more engaging alternatives.

The BBC’s Christmas Day begins with animated features including Trolls: Holiday in Harmony, Toy Story 3 and Minions: The Rise of Gru.

This will be followed by an adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s Tiddler for younger viewers.

The traditional King’s Christmas Broadcast will air at 3pm, maintaining its customary time slot.

📢 Christmas Day. 9pm. iPlayer and BBC One.

Gavin & Stacey: The Finale is occurin’. Tidy.

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— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) December 3, 2024

The evening schedule features festive editions of popular shows including The Weakest Link, Strictly Come Dancing, and Doctor Who.

A new Wallace and Gromit film, Vengeance Most Fowl, will premiere as one of the day’s highlights.

Two episodes of EastEnders will air during prime time, promising dramatic Christmas storylines.

The day concludes with Call The Midwife, the final episode of Gavin and Stacey and Mrs Brown’s Boys, rounding off the evening’s entertainment.

Viewers have been particularly vocal about their disappointment on social media platforms.

“No movie after the Kings speech? Guess I’ll have to find one on another channel to fall asleep to after my Xmas lunch….wont be breaking that tradition,” one viewer commented.

Others were more direct in their criticism, with one stating: “If that’s their offering for Christmas Day then we’ll be watching ITV until 9pm.”

“Not one thing appeals to me I’m afraid,” wrote another disappointed viewer.

The repetitive nature of programming across channels has also drawn criticism.

“The Christmas TV schedules are just getting so predictable. Indiana Jones franchise being shown on Channel 4, Agatha Christie films and ‘Classics’ on BBC 2,” one X user complained.

Some viewers were even more dismissive, with one simply stating “Netflix it is then,” while another added “What a load of rubbish the best thing is Wallace and Gromit.”

Viewers have particularly lamented the loss of traditional Christmas Day programming elements.

One nostalgic fan expressed: “I still miss the 80s’ staple of having Noel Edmonds hosting a live Christmas Day programme at lunchtime, from the top of BT tower, or somewhere. Live Christmas Day telly always felt a bit more special.”

The absence of a post-King’s Speech film has been a particular point of contention.

“Still haven’t processed the fact I won’t be able to slide into my traditional food coma snooze within 10 minutes of ‘the BBC One family film after the King/Queen’s Speech’,” one viewer commented.

Some have suggested the BBC’s Christmas offering has lost its festive magic.

Multiple social media users indicated they feel “robbed” of what used to be a “special” television experience.

The criticism reflects a broader sentiment that the BBC’s Christmas Day schedule has strayed from cherished viewing traditions.

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Despite widespread criticism, BBC’s Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore remains enthusiastic about the festive schedule.

“No one does Christmas quite like the BBC, and this year we have raised the bar even higher with a cracking line-up that will bring people together across the UK,” she declared.

Moore highlighted the importance of showcasing “the finest British creativity” and welcoming back favourite characters.

She emphasised that viewers can access content either live or through iPlayer, insisting “there really is something for everyone!”

Others are planning to abandon traditional television entirely in favour of streaming services like Netflix.