TV Dependence Survey By Radio Times

Nora Batty was voted the least worrying dinner date for TV viewers in a recent survey commissioned by Radio Times looking into TV viewing habits and general dependency. 819 adults were questioned in the study with 64% of those saying they would not give up their TV for life even if offered £10,000. 33% refused a potential bribe of £100,000 and a surprising 15% said they would not part with their televisions for £1m.

Given the choice of telephone, TV, radio or newspaper, interviewees were asked to choose which one they would rather have if stranded on a desert island. 21% picked television as their chosen companion, being the most popular amongst the 16-24 C2DE group. 35% of those surveyed said they watch less television than they did 12 months ago, with 41% claiming they plan their viewing on the day of watching and 21% planning in advance.

In terms of TV personalities Jeremy Beadle proved to be the least popular choice of next door neighbour, Bob Geldof was nominated for the Cabinet, Victoria Wood was voted the most entertaining party guest and Brookside the least popular soap opera set to live in.

The Watching Brief Survey was conducted by NOP Research in December of last year at 45 sampling points across the country. This is the fourth report produced by Radio Times which studies the viewing habits of UK audiences.

Sarah Webb, Radio Times: 071 436 4060