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TV is a big part of life in the UK - over 27 million households have one, and most people spend around four hours a day watching or streaming programmes. Nearly 70% of homes subscribe to services like Netflix or Amazon Prime, giving us more choice than ever. But have you ever wondered what your favourite shows might say about you?
Whether you’re into reality competitions, true crime, lifestyle shows, or the newest TV dramas, the programmes you enjoy can reveal surprising insights into your personality, your decision-making style, and what really motivates you. Paul Lenglet, co-founder and editor of CritiqueJeu, explains that the programmes we gravitate toward can hint at personality traits, how we make decisions, and even our approach to risk.
Reality competition fans
Do you love shows like Survivor or The Apprentice? According to Paul, viewers drawn to competition-based reality shows often enjoy strategy and planning. They tend to weigh their options carefully, making calculated decisions rather than acting on impulse.
Dating show enthusiasts
If Love Island or The Bachelor is your go-to, you might be someone who values social interaction and emotional connections. Paul notes that fans of dating shows are often outgoing and enjoy exploring interpersonal dynamics.
Cooking and baking lovers
From MasterChef to The Great British Bake Off, people who watch cooking competitions often appreciate structure, tradition, and progress. “Fans of these shows enjoy seeing clear goals being met and often have perfectionist tendencies,” says Paul.
Talent show followers
Shows like Britain’s Got Talent or The X Factor appeal to viewers who enjoy creativity and personal transformation. Paul says these fans often celebrate underdogs and value authenticity and creative expression.
Home renovation admirers
If you’re drawn to programmes like Grand Designs or DIY SOS, you probably enjoy seeing change unfold methodically. These viewers often show patience and long-term thinking, applying a careful approach to real-life decisions, particularly financial ones.
True crime buffs
Fans of Making a Murderer or The Staircase are often curious, investigative, and drawn to human psychology. Paul explains that these viewers enjoy solving puzzles and exploring the darker side of human nature.
Lifestyle and self-improvement watchers
From Queer Eye to Sort Your Life Out, lifestyle shows attract viewers motivated by personal growth and transformation. Whether improving themselves or helping others, these programmes resonate with people who enjoy change.
A note of caution
Paul stresses that these patterns are general trends, not hard rules. You might enjoy a show for reasons that don’t reflect your personality - maybe the adventure in Survivor appeals more than the strategy, or the fashion on Love Island catches your eye rather than the romance.
He also notes that viewing habits are changing, especially among younger audiences. One Ofcom report shows that 15-24-year-olds increasingly prefer short clips and highlights rather than full episodes, offering further insight into modern viewing behaviour.
Next time you settle in for your favourite show, pause for a moment and think about what draws you in. You might be surprised by what your viewing choices reveal about yourself!
Expert commentary courtesy of Paul Lenglet from CritiqueJeu.
Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.