The editor of BBC Breakfast, Richard Frediani, has taken an extended period of leave following allegations of bullying and misconduct. Frediani, who has been in charge of the UK's most-watched morning programme since 2019, is the subject of at least two complaints, according to Deadline.
The BBC has appointed an external HR adviser from consultancy firm PwC to review the culture at the Salford-based show. The corporation declined to comment on individual cases but stated it takes all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously.
Reports indicate that Frediani allegedly physically shook a lower-ranking female editor in the newsroom in 2024, and has faced allegations of shouting and swearing at colleagues. BBC presenter Naga Munchetty is said to have raised concerns about his conduct. Frediani, a former ITV News executive, was given additional responsibility as editor of the News at One after one complaint against him was upheld.
In April, the BBC published an independent review into its workplace culture, which found that a minority of staff, both on- and off-air, were effectively allowed to behave unacceptably. The review concluded that while the BBC does not have a toxic culture, it must intervene earlier when allegations emerge. BBC chair Samir Shah acknowledged that there are still places where powerful individuals can abuse their power.
Last month, Frediani accepted a Bafta award when Breakfast won best TV news coverage for a special episode on the Post Office scandal. He has not commented on the allegations.
