Compact(1962)

Compact was a British television soap opera that aired on the BBC from 1962 to 1965. Created by Hazel Adair and Peter Ling, the series offered a middle-class alternative to the kitchen sink realism of Coronation Street, setting its drama in the world of magazine publishing. The show blended workplace intrigue with personal storylines, following the professional and private lives of staff at the magazine. It initially starred Joanne Minster as editor before her character was replaced by Ian Harmon, son of the magazine's owner. Though critics were largely dismissive, Compact found a loyal audience and earned a Sunday omnibus edition in 1964. Producer Morris Barry attempted to revitalize the series in response to press criticism, but the BBC ultimately cancelled it in 1965, never fully comfortable with the soap opera format.