The Stage

Silent Witness star demands more drama on TV

Published Monday 23 April 2007 at 13:45 by Matthew Hemley

Actress Emilia Fox has criticised the state of British television drama, claiming broadcasters need to increase their output in the area.

Speaking to The Stage at The Bafta Craft Awards, the Silent Witness star said: “There is not enough drama being made for everyone’s liking.

“It’s a very expensive part of television making if you compare it to say reality TV.

“In the current climate, people are being very careful about what dramas they do make and so there are less of them. There seems to be weeks go by when you don’t see a drama on television.”

However, the actress also claimed that those dramas that are made were “pushing the boundaries”.

She said: “People in charge in drama making always try and find something that is relevant today and topical. I think people always try and push the boundaries.”

But Life on Mars actor Philip Glenister said he wanted to see more provocative drama and hit out at the lack of original writing on British television.

He commented: “There is the potential to be bolder and address issues. I would like to see more original drama and stories - not so much stuff that is based on real life.

“It would be nice to see more fictional television created.”