
One in four adults has taken up a new hobby after being inspired by a TV show or film, a recent poll of 4,158 television viewers has found.
The Influence of Screen Characters
In particular, 18 to 24-year-olds are twice as likely as the average adult to try something new after being inspired by on-screen characters. Half of this age group have been motivated to explore new activities.
Changing fashion choices is a common outcome, with 44% of young adults altering their style after being influenced by characters on screen, compared to just 18% of all adults.
Diverse Inspirations
Other activities sparked by TV shows and films include cooking new dishes (44%), learning a new language or exploring different cultures (28%), and researching historical or scientific topics (62%).
Additionally, some viewers have purchased related merchandise (32%) and joined fan clubs (20%) as a result of enjoying a series or film.
Viewing Personalities
The research identified four distinct viewing personalities: trendsetters (34%), dreamers (28%), detectives (24%), and casuals (14%).
Trendsetters are early adopters of new content, with 89% enjoying 'buzz-worthy' shows. Dreamers seek escape through grand narratives, while detectives are news-driven viewers who prefer traditional live broadcast TV. Casuals are routine-focused and tend to stick to familiar genres.
Each group has unique viewing habits and preferences, shaping the evolving landscape of TV entertainment in the UK.