Scott Mills
The recent surprise sacking of the Radio Two Breakfast Show presenter became front page news for many media outlets – including the BBC. The manner of his dismissal raised as many questions as the BBC’s statement answered. Since then, his long association with Radio One and Radio Two has been erased . A number of outside organisations including charities have also dropped him. For its part the BBC’s outgoing DG Tim Davie says it was obvious he had to go:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy01wd437x2o
What came to light in the media was the fact that the openly gay presenter had been accused of a ‘serious’ allegation involving someone under 16 around 30 years ago. The Crown Prosecution Service advised that there wasn’t enough evidence to take the case to court and it was dropped. The BBC said it knew about the allegation but that new information had come to light. Social Media continues to buzz with comments but one thing is clear, high-profile presenters are now subject to stringent codes of behaviour and the issue of reputational damage to the BBC is a completely new ballgame.
Matt Brittin – the new BBC DG
Scott Mills’ departure may have been signed off by the outgoing DG Tim Davie, but the new DG has been seen around New Broadcasting House ahead of taking up the post in May.
What sort of BBC does the new DG envision?
He said the UK needs “a thriving BBC that works for everyone in a complex, uncertain and fast changing world”. Setting out his agenda, he added: “The BBC needs the pace and energy to be both where stories are, and where audiences are. To build on the reach, trust and creative strengths today, confront challenges with courage, and thrive as a public service fit for the future.”
Some people in the media have questioned the BBC’s appointment of someone with a background in tech rather than public service or traditional editorial and broadcasting sectors. However, Mark Thompson, former Director General and current CEO and chairman of CNN, said he welcomed the appointment. “It’s clearly a bold and interesting choice, an advance payment on the future,” Thompson said. “Matt Brittin isn’t a broadcaster or journalist by background but brings skills and experiences to the job that no previous director general has had. “He is genuinely public spirited and strategic and is an interesting and encouraging choice.”
Brittin’s background in tech, especially Google, will help, according to the BBC Board. The man himself has said he wanted a big public service job where he could really make a difference. What is clear is the fact there’ll be no shortage of people watching how he gets on.
Finally and amazingly, Sir David Attenborough celebrates his 100th birthday next month
Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday will be celebrated with three special programmes, the BBC has announced.
The corporation will mark Sir David’s “extraordinary milestone” on 8 May with a week of special programming featuring new and old shows by the beloved presenter.
- Making Life on Earth: Attenborough’s Greatest Adventure, will go behind the scenes of his landmark BBC One series. Life on Earth was first broadcast in 1979 and followed Sir David as he travelled to 40 countries to film 600 species. The new programme will feature new interviews of the wildlife broadcaster and the original production team as they reflect on the making of the series.
- Sir David will also appear in a new series, Secret Garden, in which he will reveal the hidden worlds within Britain’s gardens.
- David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth, a live event from the Royal Albert Hall featuring the BBC Concert Orchestra and special guests.
The week will also revisit episodes from Sir David’s most-loved series including Planet Earth, One Planet, Blue Planet, Frozen Planet, Planet Earth and his most recent special Wild London.
