ITV secured four of the top five TV audiences in the UK during the first week of the World Cup, with England's win over Croatia drawing 15.4 million viewers. The BBC's coverage, while strong, lagged behind ITV's initial success.
The BBC has canceled the planned Doctor Who Christmas special and ended its partnership with showrunner Russell T. Davies and Bad Wolf production company. While the BBC states the show remains important, Davies has indicated his departure. Viewing figures have dipped during Gatwa's run, and fan reception to recent finales has been mixed.
Uefa anticipates increased UK viewership for the Champions League final despite TNT Sport's decision to charge for access, a first in 34 years. While previous finals were free, the new paywall on HBO Max is expected to boost numbers, though critics argue major sporting events should remain free-to-air.
Channel 5 to air daily Commonwealth Games highlights after BBC declines coverage due to financial constraints, while TNT Sports holds live rights and will also offer the Games on HBO Max.
