Did ITV Buy BBC Television Centre? Unveiling the History of an Iconic Building
The BBC Television Centre, affectionately nicknamed the “doughnut,” stands as a testament to broadcasting innovation. But did ITV, a major competitor, ever purchase this iconic building? This article delves into the history of Television Centre, exploring its design, notable productions, and what ultimately happened to it.
A Broadcasting Pioneer: The Birth of Television Centre
Designed by Graham Dawbarn and opened in 1960, the BBC Television Centre in Shepherd’s Bush, London, was a pioneering facility. It was one of the world’s most technologically advanced television production hubs, built on the site of the 1908 Franco-British exhibition. Its unique circular design housed technical equipment, artist facilities, and administrative offices, with studios linked by a covered walkway to a scenery block for efficient production.
The distinctive “doughnut” shape arose from a moment of inspiration. Dawbarn, struggling with the triangular site, sketched a question mark in the center of the plot. This simple symbol sparked the circular design, effectively accommodating eight studios, production galleries, and various support areas.
A bronze statue of a muscular nude man holding a ring of fire representing the Sun. He stands atop the world.
The central garden features the Helios statue, symbolizing the global reach of television broadcasting. This sculpture, created by T. B. Huxley-Jones, depicts the Greek god of the sun, representing the radiation of television light, with figures of Sound and Vision at its base.
From Fawlty Towers to Strictly Come Dancing: Television Centre’s Legacy
Television Centre housed studios of varying sizes, including the massive Studio TC1, once Britain’s second-largest television studio. This iconic building was the birthplace of countless beloved programs, including Fawlty Towers, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Blue Peter, Absolutely Fabulous, classic Doctor Who, and Strictly Come Dancing. It was also home to the cherished Blue Peter garden, a treasured memory for generations of children.
The End of an Era and a New Beginning: The Fate of Television Centre
The landscape of television production shifted, with drama production moving towards film and single-camera video. By 1994, The House of Eliott marked the last major drama series filmed at Television Centre. The facility became less suited to modern production methods.
The BBC sold Television Centre in 2012. Contrary to the question “Did Itv Buy Bbc Television Centre?”, the answer is no. The building underwent extensive refurbishment, transforming into premium flats and offices. However, three television studios, including the flagship TC1, were retained. BBC Studios, the BBC’s commercial arm, now has its headquarters at the site. This ensures that the legacy of television production continues at this historic location. While ITV did not purchase the building, Television Centre remains a vital part of the UK’s media landscape.
