King Charles's Christmas speech tops TV ratings but can't match last year's viewership

The Yuletide address from King Charles III managed to attract an average of 5.9 million viewers, clinching the top spot. The BBC, which aired this speech, dominated the day, boasting nine programs in the top ten British television viewership rankings. "Strictly Come Dancing", a British take on "Dancing with the Stars", came in second with 5.3 million viewers. "Doctor Who"'s festive episode claimed third place, amassing 4.7 million viewers.

Though these might seem like solid figures, both the King's speech and "Strictly" saw a drop in popularity this year compared to last. Charles's 2022 Christmas speech, which alluded to the death of Queen Elizabeth II (who passed away on September 8 of the previous year), drew an average of 8.1 million viewers on BBC One. In his pre-recorded message, the king conveyed his gratitude to the people who extended love and empathy after his mother's passing.

"I fondly remember the heartfelt letters, cards, and messages so many of you sent to my wife and me. I can't express enough how grateful we are for the love and empathy you've shown our family," he asserted. He also paid tribute to his mother, an enduring monarch whose reign spanned 70 years.

That occasion was the decade's most viewed Christmas monarch's speech, accumulating 10.6 million viewers across BBC One, BBC Two, and ITV. In comparison, Queen Elizabeth II's final Christmas message in 2021 was viewed by 8.96 million viewers. The 2020 royal address brought in a remarkable 24 million viewers.

"Strictly" had an average audience of 5.4 million last year, which implies a decline of 100,000 viewers for this year.