Top ITV Executive Criticises Charles Allen Era

A senior production executive at ITV has said that the broadcaster has lost its way, branding its flagship channel as “unwatchable” and downmarket.

In an interview in today’s MediaGuardian, ITV controller of drama, comedy and films, Andy Harries, has criticised Charles Allen’s era at the company, saying Allen was short-sighted and that “ITV is so unfashionable, it doesn’t have to be like Channel 4, but it should be modern. It looks like a bargain basement.”

Harries claimed ITV had taken its eye off the ball in recent years. “There’s been a deep complacency, combined with arrogance. ITV has been caught napping big time.”

He also argued that drama should be scheduled in hour-long instalments, rather than the 90-minute slot between 9pm and 10.30pm that has become standard.

Asked if he would leave ITV, he said: “I can’t possibly talk to you about that. I shall be hung, drawn and quartered.”

Charles Allen confirmed that he would depart ITV earlier this month (see Charles Allen Leaves ITV) and several candidates have been rumoured as possibilities to take the top spot (see Roger Parry Expresses Interest In ITV Top Job).

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