Comedian and BIMA Hall of Fame nominee Stephen Fry is leading a chorus of criticism of the BBC’s Diamond Jubilee coverage – describing it on Twitter as “mind-numbingly tedious”.
The Scotsman reports: “The corporation drew criticism during the Thames pageant, with viewers attacking its ‘inane’ commentary, camera angles and sound quality.
“With broadcasters struggling to cope with technical problems caused by the bad weather, including the sound cutting out during musical performances, Fry took to Twitter to single out other aspects of the BBC’s coverage.
He wrote: ‘Has the BBC ever presented a more mind-numbingly tedious programme in its history? ‘HRH the queen’ said the first ignorant presenter. HRH?’.”
Kevin Marsh, a former editor of Radio’s 4 Today and World at One programmes, appeared to echo his views, writing: “Am I being over-critical or is the BBC commentary lamentable?”
However, the BBC defended its coverage, responding: “We’re very proud of the quality and breadth of the BBC’s coverage of this extraordinary event.”
Comments
comments
Whilst Monarchists and Republicans alike acknowedge the contribution of the Queen in a 60-year reign, the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations are not representative of mass public support throughout the United Kingdom, in contrast to the image portrayed by the Media.
Whilst hundreds of thousands celebrate the festivities especially in the Capital, this has not been mirrored in the provinces with a similar degree of enthusiasm.
The cost of these celebrations are unknown. Who will foot the bill is also yet to be determined. At a time of austerity measures throughout the Nation, media reports of an estimated cost of £1.2bn, support the contention of a certain degree of lack of financial control verging on irresponsibility.
H.M. the Queen appears to have taken this all in her stride; as an octogenarian she has fulfilled her commitments with majesty, grace, considerable fortitude and stamina bordering on the miraculous. It must be remembered that to require such strenuous input of an aged Monarch in such inclemant weather, and over a number of days - could be considered as excessive. The Thames Flotilla with H.M. and HRH the Duke of Edinburgh standing on the deck of the Royal Barge for such a long time, is an example of true "British Grit" but could have and should have been managed more appropriately. It is therefore no surprise that HRH Prince Philip was later taken ill and hospitalised, and I am sure that we all wish him a speedy recovery.
This loyal subject found the political manipulation of these celebrations very disturbing.
Write Your Comment