The BBC has formally apologised to former US President Donald Trump following his threat of a billion-dollar lawsuit concerning the editing of a speech he gave before the Capitol riot on January 6.
The Legal Threat and Allegations
Mr Trump declared he had an 'obligation' to sue the broadcaster, alleging that a Panorama programme had 'defrauded the public' by doctoring footage. He claimed the edit made his 'very calming speech' appear radical and as if he was encouraging violence. His legal team sent a scathing letter demanding a full retraction, an immediate apology, and compensation for what they termed a 'fabricated depiction'.
The corporation was given a deadline to respond to the $1 billion (£760 million) legal threat. In a significant development, the BBC conceded an 'error of judgement' and confirmed the controversial programme 'will not be broadcast again in this form on any BBC platforms'.
Resignations and Internal Review
The fallout from the edited segment, first broadcast in October last year, led to the resignation of key BBC figures. Outgoing director-general Tim Davie and chief executive of news Deborah Turness both stepped down from their roles. BBC chairman Samir Shah subsequently issued the apology on Monday.
An internal review revealed that the programme's editor, executive producers, and the external production company, October Film, were unaware of the specific edits. The splicing of the footage was reportedly carried out by a producer-director and a visual editor without being flagged to senior staff.
Political Reactions and Future Implications
Reacting to the BBC's apology, Mr Trump told Fox News, 'I guess I have to [sue]. Why not? They defrauded the public and they've admitted it.' He referenced the resignations, stating, 'the head man quit and a lot of the other people quit.'
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, weighed in, labelling the BBC a 'Leftist propaganda machine' and expressing that it was 'unfortunate' the broadcaster is funded by British taxpayers. She confirmed the legal action is expected to proceed.
A BBC spokesman stated the corporation 'will review the letter and respond directly in due course'. Meanwhile, as the search for a new director-general begins, the director-general of Ireland's national broadcaster, Kevin Bakhurst, has emerged as a potential candidate for the top job.
