Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Zoë Wanamaker says ‘too much television is violent and nasty’ in today’s world

Actor said programmes that appeal to the whole family are ‘unusual’ and ‘missed’

Ellie Harrison
Tuesday 26 November 2019 06:29 EST
Comments
Zoë Wanamaker
Zoë Wanamaker (Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Zoë Wanamaker has said too much television is “violent and nasty” and we have enough of that “surrounding us in the world”.

The actor is starring in a new adaptation of the children’s story Worzel Gummidge which will air on BBC1 over Christmas.

“I learnt on My Family how great it is when kids and adults can watch TV together,” she told the Radio Times.

“It’s very unusual and I think it’s missed now. Something that catches everybody’s imagination is to be lauded.”

She continued: “If you think of Harry Potter, for instance, it goes on forever and can be enjoyed by different generations. Too much television is violent and nasty.

“We’ve got that surrounding us in the world, so why should we have it on our televisions all the time as well? To have joy is always important, and to be desired.”

Mackenzie Crook, who writes, directs and stars in the new two-part adaptation of Barbara Euphan Todd’s Worzel Gummidge, also stars in the titular role.

Michael Palin, Steve Pemberton, Rosie Cavaliero and Vicki Pepperdine also feature.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in