STEVENS: Stories, breathtaking pictures... this is perfect family TV
Its depth of knowledge is truly impressive. Narrated by the legendary Sir David Attenborough, Kingdom delivers a wealth of thoroughly researched and educational content.
Family entertainment used to be the BBC's greatest strength. Our national broadcaster was known for creating shows that everyone could enjoy together, without awkwardness. In past decades, Auntie earned her nickname by providing television that appealed across generations.
Nowadays, children's programming is separated into CBeebies or CBBC. Even major hits like the finale of The Celebrity Traitors, which attracted over 11 million viewers (a figure impressive even by standards 40 years ago when there were only four channels), aired after the watershed with a strong language warning.
The Celebrity Traitors features expert editing. Profanities could have been removed or censored, but many TV executives believe such censorship feels either prudish or unauthentic. The notion of family viewing—suitable for everyone from kids to grandparents—is often viewed as outdated and overly sentimental.
Kingdom, scheduled at 6:20pm on Sundays, stands out as a remarkable exception. Its wildlife photography is exceptional and sets a high standard for wildlife filmmakers worldwide. No broadcaster can rival the BBC's outstanding wildlife storytelling.
"The very idea of family viewing, suitable for children and grandparents alike, is too often seen as old-fashioned and twee."
"Kingdom, airing at 6.20pm on a Sunday, is an outstanding exception. Its standard of wildlife photography is superb, laying down a challenge to natural history film-makers across the world."
Author's summary: Kingdom revives the spirit of true family TV with extraordinary storytelling and world-class wildlife cinematography, challenging the notion that family-friendly programming is outdated.