Pop Vultures

Before I say anything else about Lily Allen and Friends, the flagship show of BBC 3’s new lineup, in the interests of full disclosure I must declare: I am 27, and this show makes me feel old. It is just possible this may have coloured my opinion of the programme somewhat.

First of all, it’s presented by Lily Allen, who is only 22, has already had a number 1 hit song and a Grammy nomination, and who now has her own BBC TV show. She doesn’t even have the decency to be a total bitch, curse her. Actually, she comes across as a sweetheart, and interviews her guests with a charming faux naiveté and lots of disarming girlish giggles. By comparison I feel like a raddled old hag.

The audience is made up of Lily’s ‘friends’ - people who have signed up on her website, which requires you to share your confessions and embarrassing stories for possible use on the show. One girl told a story about throwing a house party while her parents were away, which resulted in the family car being stolen and the family dog getting ‘pilled up’. The audience thought this story was hilarious. I was appalled. That poor dog! Obviously I am old and humourless.

The show also features interviews with stars of TV shows which I don’t watch and lots of clips from You Tube which I haven’t seen. Apparently BBC 3 is aiming at an audience of 16 to 34-year-olds, which puts me bang in the middle of their intended demographic. But I have to say, I think they’re sadly off-target with Lily Allen and Friends. Whilst Lily is undoubtedly a sweet girl, and a charming interviewer, I feel patronised by the idea that the BBC thinks my age group will be entertained by video clips of a monkey peeing into its own mouth.

The BBC has a long history of trying, and largely failing, to appeal to a ‘youth’ market. Kids love the BBC for its quality children’s programming, and adults love the BBC for its quality adult programming. Youths watch E4 and gorge themselves silly on shows like Skins and Hollyoaks until they grow out of it and come scurrying back to the Beeb. ‘Twas ever thus. Whether Lily Allen and Friends can turn the tide remains to be seen, but I have to say, I suspect not.