What counts as a notable new UK series in 2018
This guide profiles television series first broadcast in the United Kingdom during 2018. It includes scripted dramas and comedies, key factual and entertainment formats, and highlights where available information on commissioning, platform, and current accessibility is clear and verifiable. Each entry notes genre, main channel, series status, and how to watch in the UK when widely reported.
Why 2018 was a notable year for UK television
2018 saw established public-service broadcasters, subscription streamers, and niche channels commissioning ambitious series while continuing multi-season hits. The year brought the conclusion of some long-running programmes and the launch of new originals intended to define brands for years. A focus on distinctive British voices coexisted with formats adapted from international formats and global streaming originals that premiered locally.
Overview table: notable new UK series in 2018 at a glance
| Title | Genre | Primary channel or platform | Series status (as of 2025) | How to watch in the UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The ABC Murders | Crime drama | BBC One | Ended (1 series) | BBC iPlayer, licensed broadcast |
| The Cry | Psychological drama | BBC One | Ended (1 series) | BBC iPlayer |
| Hang Ups | Comedy drama | Channel 4 | Ended (1 series) | All 4 |
| The Last Tree | Comedy drama | Channel 4 | Ended (1 series) | All 4 |
| The Split | Legal drama | BBC One | Running (Series 3 aired 2022) | BBC iPlayer |
| Strike | Crime drama | BBC One | Running | BBC iPlayer |
| Bodyguard | Thriller | BBC One | Ended (1 series) | BBC iPlayer |
| The Reluctant Landlord | Comedy | Sky One | Ended (2 series) | Now TV, Sky Glass |
| Ghosts (UK) | Sitcom | BBC One | Running | BBC iPlayer |
| The Windsors | Sitcom | Channel 4 | Ended (4 series) | All 4 |
| Save Me | Drama | Sky One | Ended (2 series) | Now TV |
| The Keith & Paddy Picture Show | Comedy | ITV | Ended (1 series) | ITV Hub |
Streaming and on-demand prominence in 2018
Beyond linear broadcast, 2018 saw original series exclusive to UK streaming services and international platforms with UK launches or local commissioning. This includes BritBox’s first original scripted series and distinctive programmes on UK Now TV and Sky Glass. Public-service broadcasters continued to release episodes on BBC iPlayer and All 4 shortly after broadcast, while niche services added originals not seen elsewhere. Availability on licensed services and terms may change, so checking current catalogue listings is recommended.
Genres and formats gaining attention in 2018
In 2018, UK audiences saw crime thrillers with modern forensic storytelling, tightly written legal procedurals, and bold adaptations of classic novels. Comedies explored contemporary relationships and workplace dynamics, often with shorter series orders. Factual entertainment continued to experiment with formats that blend documentary and studio presentation, while family programming leaned into adventure and speculative fiction. The year emphasized distinctive local production alongside access to global originals and formats.
How to stay updated on availability and new seasons
To track when episodes or series become available on UK services, consult broadcaster and streamer catalogue pages, official social channels, and trusted TV listings. Programme pages on BBC iPlayer, All 4, and commercial streaming dashboards reflect current licensing. Where specifics on renewal or removal are not provided by platforms, treating a show as completed after its listed final season is a cautious approach.
Quick reference: accessibility across services
- BBC iPlayer remains the primary catch-up and original home for BBC One originals such as The ABC Murders, The Cry, Bodyguard, and Ghosts (UK).
- Channel 4 and All 4 host originals including Hang Ups and The Last Tree.
- Sky One and Now TV carry commissioned originals and ongoing drama series.
- ITV Hub provides access to select commissioned entertainment and co-productions.
- BritBox UK hosts originals and catalogue series, with terms subject to regional licensing.