[tellyblues]

The problem with BGT and most Xmas specials of formatted shows is that they don't feel special and are padded out as usual, so it's stop, start, 2 minutes of performance (if you're lucky), stop, start etc, which viewers will tolerate any other time but on Xmas Day they want to be entertained, not watch endless VTs or people behind desks giving critique. Shows like Blankety Blank and The Wheel are light-hearted enough that the serious quiz stuff can disappear for a minute while people joke and banter and The 1% Club is something where the questions have flavour and because they're logic-based some fun debate can be had whereas "I remember you from the first audition..." speeches are dull.

As for what ITV could do this year, the soaps will be there as will 1% Club. Not sure what films they will have the rights to. I think though something that is accessible to most people and has all the ingredients of what Xmas TV should be about can be done. This may sound stupid but past schedules are a good source for ideas.