Streamer Boom Muddies TV Show Success Metrics

The increasing presence of American streamers has introduced ambiguity in assessing the success of television shows, as noted by producer Jeff Pope. In an era of fragmented viewing, where traditional ratings hold less sway, critical reviews have ascended in importance, acting as a crucial guide for audiences.

Pope, preparing to launch the ITV drama 'Believe Me' about John Worboys, reflected on his own experience with the streamer Disney+. He admitted uncertainty about the viewership numbers for his previous show, 'Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes,' a stark contrast to the pre-streaming era. His producing partner, Saurabh Kakkar, emphasized that reviews now serve as a vital tool for discovery, guiding viewers to content they might otherwise miss.

While streamers like Netflix and Disney+ are praised for pushing factual drama and offering lucrative opportunities, they also present financial challenges for traditional public service broadcasters. Pope highlighted the difficulty in funding UK-centric productions like 'Believe Me.' The drama itself centers on the Metropolitan Police's failure to adequately investigate allegations against Worboys, allowing him to continue his crimes undetected for years.

Pope clarified that 'Believe Me' is not about Worboys' motivations but rather shines a light on the concerning statistic of low charging rates for reported sexual assaults. He noted that Worboys' victims, including Carrie Johnson, faced significant struggles, and underscored the need for better support. Pope also addressed his critical portrayal of the police, stating he does not have an anti-police agenda but believes the Metropolitan Police requires significant reform to be 'fit for the role in 2026.'