American television on British screens : a story of cultural interaction

the long version

"American programmes have always been part of British television, from I Love Lucy in the 1950s to more recent 'must see' programmes such as Lost. They have been used throughout the schedules, playing in prime-time and in the afternoon and late-night slots. However, many British critics, broadcasters and scholars alike have in the past tended to malign, ignore or sideline their role. Many feared that these popular and shiny products were eroding British culture. Now, when British viewers can watch American television 24 hours a day, is a good time to re-evaluate the American contribution. Through an analysis of popular and industrial discourses, interviews with key British broadcasters and an examination of the way programmes are assimilated into the schedules, Paul Rixon explores the role of American programmes on British television screens."--Jacket.