Channel 4's gritty reality show SAS: Who Dares Wins has ignited a fierce debate after slapping a new 'trigger warning' on its intense interrogation episodes, branding the move as 'woke' censorship by critics and a necessary duty of care by the broadcaster.
The warning, which appears before the show's most brutal episodes, cautions viewers that the upcoming content features 'distressing interrogations and realistic scenarios' that some may find deeply upsetting.
Backlash From Fans And Former Stars
The decision has been met with scorn from many fans and former show stalwarts. Ex-chief instructor Ant Middleton, known for his no-nonsense approach, led the criticism, suggesting the show has lost its edge and its original purpose of showcasing the extreme mental resilience required for special forces selection.
Many viewers have taken to social media to express their frustration, arguing that the very point of the show is to be challenging and uncomfortable. They claim the warning undermines the authenticity of the experience the programme is meant to simulate.
Channel 4's Defence
In a statement defending the move, a Channel 4 spokesperson stated: 'We provide appropriate warnings to viewers where content may cause distress, ensuring they can make an informed decision about watching. This is a standard part of our duty of care.'
The broadcaster emphasised that the show still features the same high-intensity, gruelling challenges it is famous for, and the warning is simply a measure to protect vulnerable viewers.
A Sign Of The Times?
This incident places SAS: Who Dares Wins at the centre of the ongoing 'culture war' debate surrounding trigger warnings and content advisories on television. It highlights the continuing tension between portraying harsh realities for entertainment and the evolving standards of viewer protection in modern broadcasting.
Whether this warning will affect the show's popularity with its core audience remains to be seen as the new series continues to air.
