**Brits Reveal the Most Annoying TV Habits: What Makes the Worst Viewing Companion?**
If you’ve ever groaned in frustration while sharing the sofa with someone who simply can’t keep quiet, a new survey suggests you’re not alone in your irritation. According to a recent study involving 2,000 UK adults, British households are rife with habits that can make watching telly anything but relaxing.
The research, commissioned by M&M’S in celebration of their “It’s More Fun Together” campaign, delved into the pet peeves encountered during shared television time. From non-stop chatter to those relentless remote hoggers, these little quirks can upset even the most patient viewer.
Some of the most frequently reported grievances involved individuals who pose endless questions during episodes, those who compulsively flick through channels, or—perhaps worst of all—people who let slip major plot spoilers before others have even realised what’s happening. The data shows that TV companionship in the UK is a minefield of minor annoyances.
Crunching too noisily on snacks proved to be a common irritation, with nearly a quarter of respondents declaring it a top complaint. Meanwhile, 21% said they wish their companions would simply turn up the telly, highlighting that even sound levels can stir up tension.
Interestingly, despite these widespread gripes, many Brits confessed to committing the very same offences they claim to despise. Around a quarter of those asked admitted to being notoriously poor viewing partners themselves, often bombarding their company with queries not out of curiosity, but simply because they hadn’t been paying attention. For some, it’s an attempt to keep up; for others, it’s a matter of concentration slipping away.
Yet, for all the nuisance, there remains a shared affection for these imperfect experiences. A substantial 33% of people said that curling up in front of the TV with friends is just as satisfying as group outings or activities. It’s a testament to the enduring power of telly to bring people together, quirks and all.
In homage to these idiosyncrasies, M&M’S took their campaign a step further by launching a “Couch Confessions” pop-up at London’s Battersea Power Station. Hosted by well-known faces Sam Thompson and Scarlett Moffatt, the event encouraged visitors to share—and perhaps celebrate—their own peculiar viewing rituals.
Speaking about her perspective on TV bonding, Scarlett Moffatt described her ideal home viewing experience as vibrant and full of life—complete with singalongs and debates over subtitles. “The chaos is what makes it special,” she shared, adding that even arguments over the remote control are part of the charm.
When asked what would improve television nights, British participants let their imaginations roam. Twenty per cent wished for snack bowls that distribute treats evenly, while nearly as many dreamt of a family footstool, ensuring everyone can put their feet up. A notable 15% longed for a gadget that could automatically adjust the volume to suit all.
Attendees at the M&M’S pop-up found themselves able to try out some of these imagined innovations first-hand, alongside enjoying TV-themed treasure hunts and spaces styled to evoke the quintessential British lounge.
The survey didn’t stop there. When asked who would make the best viewing companion, national treasures David Attenborough, Ant and Dec, and acclaimed actress Olivia Colman topped the rankings. Sam Thompson, meanwhile, offered his own take: “Throw in some bean bags, your favourite snacks, and friends—even if no one agrees on what to watch, it’s always a good night.”
For those concerned they might be guilty of annoying habits, the study compiled a list of the most frustrating behaviours, including guessing upcoming plot twists, using multiple devices during a show, rewinding constantly, or providing running commentary. Other classic faux pas involved nabbing someone else’s snacks or bursting into song along with the theme tune.
Ultimately, while Britain’s living rooms may be battlegrounds of minor TV offences, it’s clear that these eccentricities are often the glue that holds shared moments together. So, whether you’re the snack thief, plot spoiler, or simply the one who falls asleep before the ending, remember: you’re far from alone in your exasperating habits.