Was the Queen’s Coronation Televised? A Look at the Pivotal 1953 Broadcast
The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, a landmark event on June 2, 1953, was broadcast live, marking a turning point for television as a mass medium. Over 20 million viewers tuned in, surpassing radio listenership for the first time. While the BBC anticipated high interest based on the response to the partial broadcast of George VI’s coronation procession, the true impact of televising the event—ushering in the age of television and modernizing the monarchy—was unforeseen.
The BBC’s Groundbreaking Broadcast and Global Reach
Behind the scenes, the BBC orchestrated a monumental undertaking. The coronation united the nation, with 10.4 million people gathering in homes and 1.5 million watching in public venues. For the first time, cameras were permitted inside Westminster Abbey to capture the service, a decision by the Queen that defied official counsel and signaled the monarchy’s adaptability. Richard Dimbleby led the commentary within the Abbey, complemented by seven other commentators, including Bernard Braden and Brian Johnston, covering the procession route.
The BBC’s coverage extended globally. In the United States, recordings of key moments captivated 85 million viewers, while Germany aired all 11 hours. The overwhelmingly positive response solidified the BBC’s reputation as the trusted broadcaster of national events, a significant advantage with the arrival of ITV’s competition just three years later.
The Queen’s Coronation: A Televised Revolution
The decision to televise the Queen’s coronation proved revolutionary. It catapulted television into the mainstream, forever changing how people consumed major events and solidifying its place in homes across the nation and around the world. The broadcast not only showcased a historic event but also highlighted the power of television to connect people and usher in a new era of communication.
