If you’ve ever felt your patience tested by a chatty companion or a remote-control hog during a cosy night in front of the telly, you’re certainly not alone. A new poll of 2,000 UK adults has uncovered the nation’s biggest TV night bugbears – and it seems many of us are guilty of these habits ourselves. Top of the list are people who ask endless questions about the show, those who constantly flick between channels, and – perhaps the gravest sin of all – accidental spoilers.
The research, commissioned by M&M’S to mark the launch of its “It’s More Fun Together” campaign, found that a quarter of Brits get annoyed by friends or family who eat snacks too loudly, while a fifth are are frustrated by those who keep the volume too low. But it turns out we’re not always innocent.
A quarter of respondents confessed they’re a nightmare to watch TV with, confessing to always asking questions during shows. Four in ten say this is about trying to find out about a tricky plot, but a third also admit they don’t pay enough attention.
Despite these occasional annoyances, TV nights remain a cherished way to connect. A third of those surveyed said a night in front of the telly with friends is just as enjoyable as doing an activity together.
To celebrate these quirks, M&M’S hosted a “Couch Confessions” pop-up in London, featuring TV-loving celebrities Sam Thompson and Scarlett Moffatt.
Reality TV Star, Scarlett Moffatt, said: “TV nights at home are my love language, chaotic, full of theme-tune singalongs and subtitle debates. But hunkering down on the couch with Scott and Jude is what makes it so special.
“I love the little quirks that turn ordinary nights into unforgettable family moments, because watching together is always more fun, even if Jude is the remote-control-king nowadays.”
TV Personality & Radio Host, Sam Thompson, added: “I’m all about turning TV nights into a proper event with bean bags, onesies, volume up and a stash of snacks.
“It’s my favourite time to just hang out with mates, even if it takes us an hour to agree on what to watch and someone always falls asleep halfway through.”
The survey also revealed what would make group TV viewing even better. One in five would love snack bowls that perfectly divide portions, while others dream of a family-sized footstool so everyone can put their feet up.
Guests at the M&M’S pop-up got to try some of these solutions, along with scavenger hunts for TV snacks. The immersive “Couch Confessions” experience also paid homage to the nation’s favourite ways to watch TV together, with themed rooms inspired by the modern British living room.
And when it comes to dream TV companions, Brits would most like to watch with Sir David Attenborough, Ant and Dec, and Olivia Colman.