Series 9 Rumours & Speculation

[JHyde]

I also agree that the latter half of season 8 (the much better half, with the exception of 8.1) really suffered due to its being so close to Christmas. If the new season is to have any chance ratings wise, the BBC needs to get behind it much earlier. As well as being up against IACGMOOH. The acronym for which is much better than the show itself.

So I'm speculating the BBC learned from its mistakes. At least, I really hope it did. That or they're having a very drawn out press push.