What the popularity of period dramas says about modern dating
We talk “Wuthering Heights”, Bridgerton and the perils of dating in 2026
What in the World · BBC World Service
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Show Notes
“Wuthering Heights” is back and so is Bridgerton. Period dramas are having a moment. Why are we loving them so much right now? We hear from fans around the world; Tasha in Canada, Gracie in the US and Radhika in India. Chelsea from the What in the World team explains some of the reasons, like wanting more slow burn romance and courtship in our modern dating, and more accountability when it comes to ghosting. Faye Woods from the University of Reading in the UK tells us how female representation plays a role too.
We also discuss whether some of the relationships in these period dramas should be something we aspire to… Heathcliff and Cathy we’re looking at you. Happy Galentine’s Day to all our listeners!
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Chelsea Coates, Julia Ross Roy, and Ash Mohamed Editor: Verity Wilde