Spacey criticises BBC talent shows

Actor Kevin Spacey has criticised the BBC for promoting specific West End theatre productions with talent shows like I'd Do Anything and Any Dream Will Do.

The Hollywood star, who is artistic director at London's Old Vic Theatre, said it was "great" that the shows got people interested in theatre, but argued that the promotion was "crossing the line".

He told the BBC: "I felt that was essentially a 13-week promotion for a musical - where's our 13-week programme? I have spoken to your chairman but he has yet to get back to me."

A spokesperson for the corporation argued that the BBC had no commercial interest in the West End shows.

Spacey also called for the BBC to bring back Play For Today, which created TV shows like Abigail's Party, Cathy Come Home and Blue Remembered Hills.

The Usual Suspects star said that the next generation of theatre-goers were in danger of being lost to TV.

> Do I'd Do Anything and its predecessors have a positive effect on the stage as a whole? Share your views