BBC controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2019
BBC responds to criticism over a lyric in the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special
Company response
In the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special, a karaoke performance drew criticism from viewers over the use of a homophobic slur in its lyrics. In response to the criticism, the BBC stated that the song was popular and that its lyrics were well established with audiences. The broadcaster's response addressed the objections raised about the lyric while characterizing the song as widely known to viewers.
After viewers criticized the use of a homophobic slur in a karaoke performance in the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special, the BBC said the song was popular and its lyrics were well established with audiences.
Company response
Clarification — BBC
The BBC has also now responded in a statement that reads: “'Fairytale of New York’ is a very popular, much-loved Christmas song played widely throughout the festive season, and the lyrics are well established with the audience.”
Source excerpt
A number of viewers complained about the moment on social media, questioning why writers Jones and James Corden, and the BBC, had chosen to leave the lyric in knowing it was controversial.
The BBC has brushed off criticism over the use of the word “faggot” during a performance of “Fairytale of New York” in the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special.
The BBC has also now responded in a statement that reads: “'Fairytale of New York’ is a very popular, much-loved Christmas song played widely throughout the festive season, and the lyrics are well established with the audience.”
2019
BBC apologizes to Bernardine Evaristo
Company response
The BBC apologized to Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo after a presenter referred to her as “another author” without saying her name. Evaristo said the description removed her name from history.
Company response
Apology — BBC
The BBC has apologised to Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo after it described this year’s award as being split between Margaret Atwood and ‘another author’.
Source excerpt
The BBC has apologised to Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo after it described this year’s award as being split between Margaret Atwood and ‘another author’.
How quickly and casually they have removed my name from history – the first black woman to win it.
2004
Hutton Inquiry and resignation of Greg Dyke
The Hutton Inquiry examined the circumstances surrounding the death of weapons expert David Kelly and BBC reporting about the British government's claims concerning Iraq's weapons capability. The inquiry criticised aspects of BBC governance and reporting, and Director-General Greg Dyke resigned.