Brits 'lying' about their favourite TV shows as 'guilty pleasures' revealed

Half of Brits lie about enjoying high-brow crime thrillers, historical biopics and period dramas to appear more cultured and hide their true guilty TV pleasures. Telly addicts' secret viewing habits have been exposed as more than half (54%) admitted to exaggerating, fabricating or downplaying their viewing habits.

Of these telly fibbers, more than a quarter did it to sound smarter (28%), 'cooler' (28%) or more 'in the know' (27%). A whopping 78% of the nation think there's societal pressure to like TV shows because they're popular.

This comes as research commissioned by TV streaming platform U lifted the lid on the nation's 'authentic self' when it comes to what we watch, how we watch, and who we watch with. While many claim to stick to intellectually-stimulating documentaries or prestige productions, their true choices range from classic series to new dramas and familiar favourites.

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The most popular type of TV Brits lie about watching includes documentaries (20%), crime thrillers (15%), and historical biopics (13%). When left alone their 'authentic selves' emerge and they opt for dramas (17%) and comedies (12%).

The research also revealed that 'generation-bending TV' is on the increase, with viewers of all ages embracing tales both familiar and new. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of older viewers are exploring new and popular titles, while 89% of younger audiences are discovering the appeal of established classics.

The national TV audit also revealed new habits around how we watch. Subtitles are now embraced by a whopping 87% of Gen Z, compared with just 29% of Boomers.

Double-screening is common, with four in five (80%) of Gen Z and Millennials scrolling while they watch, compared to just 43% of Boomers. Nearly nine in 10 (87%) of the nation enjoys watching nostalgic viewing with more than a third (37%) of those quizzed admitting they'd prefer to watch established classics rather than new shows.

More than a third (38%) admitted they were overwhelmed by the amount of choice on TV. In a bid to juggle different view habits, three-quarters (74%) of homes now have multiple TVs or even designated 'viewing zones'.

A quarter (26%) of telly lovers prefer to watch their shows on their own than with their partner, family member or housemate. TV viewing is set to peak through autumn and winter, with 75% of Brits saying watching what they love is the highlight of their day.

U reflects the broadening of tastes with a diverse mix of free programming for different generations. Viewers can settle down to watch enduring favourites such as Call the Midwife, Gavin and Stacey, Sons of Anarchy and Parks and Recreation.

Those looking to enjoy new acclaimed originals can enjoy Bangers & Cash and Stacey Dooley Sleeps can also Over. While drama content such as Bergerac, Whitstable Pearl, The Count of Monte Cristo and The Marlow Murder Club will keep amateur sleuths entertained.

Steve North, Chief Content Officer of UKTV, said: "TV has always been a reflection of who we are and this study shows the joy in being authentic about what we watch.

"At U, we're bursting with a wide range of shows to lose yourself in - from exclusive and original dramas to entertainment and lifestyle to real-life. We believe in celebrating the TV you truly love."

The research supports U's new campaign 'Lose Yourself in What You Love' - a celebration of authentic viewing, with shows that let people be unapologetically themselves.