Zoë Wanamaker says ‘too much television is violent and nasty’ in today’s world

Actor said programmes that appeal to the whole family are ‘unusual’ and ‘missed’

Zoë Wanamaker (Getty Images)

Zoë Wanamaker has said too much television is “violent and nasty” and we have enough of that “surrounding us in the world”.

The actor is starring in a new adaptation of the children’s story Worzel Gummidge which will air on BBC1 over Christmas.

“I learnt on My Family how great it is when kids and adults can watch TV together,” she told the Radio Times.

“It’s very unusual and I think it’s missed now. Something that catches everybody’s imagination is to be lauded.”

She continued: “If you think of Harry Potter, for instance, it goes on forever and can be enjoyed by different generations. Too much television is violent and nasty.

“We’ve got that surrounding us in the world, so why should we have it on our televisions all the time as well? To have joy is always important, and to be desired.”

Mackenzie Crook, who writes, directs and stars in the new two-part adaptation of Barbara Euphan Todd’s Worzel Gummidge, also stars in the titular role.

Michael Palin, Steve Pemberton, Rosie Cavaliero and Vicki Pepperdine also feature.