Why Are Some Programmes Not Available On All 4
Ever scrolled through All 4, buzzing with excitement? You're ready for a nostalgic binge of that one show. But then... BAM! "Not available."
Seriously? It's like finding out Santa isn't real. Except worse, because Santa never promised you Derry Girls at 3 AM.
The Mystery of the Missing Shows
It's a TV treasure hunt, and we're all losing. Why are some programmes stubbornly refusing to grace our screens? Is it a conspiracy? I wouldn't rule it out.
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Maybe those shows are just shy. They're hiding, waiting for the perfect moment to reappear. Or they're holding out for a better offer. Drama queens, the lot of them.
The Blame Game (My Unpopular Opinions)
Okay, here's where I might get some angry tweets. But I'm braving the storm. First up: licensing. It's the villain in almost every streaming availability drama.
These deals are basically adult dodgeball. Networks chuck rights around, trying not to get hit with a lawsuit. And we, the viewers, are the ones dodging disappointment.
Then there's the age thing. Some shows feel ancient. Like, dial-up internet ancient. But gold is gold. Just because a show predates sliced bread doesn't mean we don't want it.
I suspect some streaming services believe old shows are "too niche". Wrong! Niche is the new mainstream. I'd rather watch a blurry, grainy episode of Father Ted than another shiny, forgettable reality show.
Could it be ME? (Probably Not)
Am I doing something wrong? Am I not sacrificing enough biscuits to the streaming gods? Is my TV simply not worthy?
Probably not. I've cleared my cache more times than I've had hot dinners. My internet connection is faster than a cheetah on Red Bull. It's not me, it's YOU, All 4!
And let's not even get started on regional restrictions. "Not available in your region." Oh, I'm sorry, am I suddenly in a different country? Last time I checked, my postcode was still valid.
It is annoying. I am British, born and bred. Why can't I watch this British content?
A Plea to the Streaming Gods
Dear All 4 (and every other streaming service): please, for the love of all that is binge-able, make your content available! I want to watch it. I will tell all my friends to watch it. It's a win-win!
Stop teasing us with glimpses of greatness. Stop making us feel like we're missing out on some secret TV society. Unlock the vaults! Unleash the shows!
Maybe, just maybe, if we all collectively complain loud enough, they'll listen. Start the hashtag! #UnlockAll4 #GiveUsOurShows #StreamingStruggles
Or perhaps, consider investing in a VPN. Just kidding...sort of. But also...consider it. (I am not advising anyone to do this by the way!)
I mean who doesn't love Peep Show. Everyone loves Peep Show. How is it right that that show isn't available all the time?
In the meantime, I'll be here, refreshing the page, hoping against hope. Wish me luck.
"Hoping against hope is what I do best." - Me, probably.
