TV since 1981

January 2025 update: Programmes reported using As Viewed reporting. This captures viewing in both TV and non-TV homes; includes viewing within seven days of a programme’s launch and up to 35 days of pre-broadcast viewing; repeat transmissions aired within the same reporting week and by the same broadcaster group are now aggregated.


Pre-2025: Programmes reported using As Broadcast reporting. This captured viewing in TV homes only; included viewing within seven days of a programme’s launch and up to 35 days of pre-broadcast viewing; reported repeat transmissions separately.

Rank Programme Date Channel Audience (millions)
1 The X Factor Results 12 Dec 2010 ITV1 16.55
2 Eastenders 19 Feb 2010 BBC1 16.41
3 World Cup 2010: England v Germany 27 Jun 2010 BBC1 15.81
4 The X Factor 03 Oct 2010 ITV1 14.51
5 Strictly Come Dancing 18 Dec 2010 BBC1 14.28
6 Coronation Street 06 Dec 2010 ITV1 14.10
7 Britain's Got Talent 05 Jun 2010 ITV1 12.83
8 Come Fly With Me 25 Dec 2010 BBC1 12.47
9 I'm a Celebrity - Get Me Out of Here 04 Dec 2010 ITV1 12.37
10 Doctor Who 25 Dec 2010 BBC1 12.11

Those seeking to replicate historic Barb programme figures via contemporary analysis tools should bear in mind that a number of factors may mean figures do not match exactly. These include, but are not limited to: changes to data included in logs by companies that submit broadcast logs, the advent of +1 channels, the inclusion of HD viewing with SD viewing to a channel, changes to the definition of the viewing day, log amendments, data re-issues and the addition of viewing from PCs, tablets and smartphones (September 2018).