Nesbitt criticises TV ratings war

James Nesbitt has criticised broadcasters for focusing on ratings rather than quality TV.

The actor said that viewers were being cheated by the TV industry because bosses were intent on creating popular shows rather than engaging audiences.

He told the Radio Times: "There's a damaging relationship between the channels where they're just throwing things at each other in the ratings war.

"Murphy's Law, which I love, has not been recommissioned yet, because it was up against Doc Martin.

"It's cheating the audience. They'll move away - there are plenty other distractions out there for audiences these days - and then where will we be?"

The Cold Feet star added: "Have you noticed how everything in television is about tone now? Is it too dark? Is it too strange? Will people relate to it?

"People don't watch TV only to relate to stuff. They also watch to find out about a world they can't relate to."