Exclusive: BBC presenters have been told to challenge guests who accuse others of transphobia after the broadcaster admitted that news items on J.K. Rowling fell short of its editorial standards.
In an internal briefing note, BBC journalists and production teams were advised that “care is needed” when people are labeled “transphobic” and the term should be interrogated during on-air debate.
The advice featured in a nine-page document on “reporting sex and gender” circulated to the BBC newsroom late last year. Deadline has obtained the briefing, which can be read in full below.
The guidance follows the BBC apologizing to Rowling twice last year. The Harry Potter author was accused of transphobia by trans rights advocates, but the claim was not properly challenged by presenters, including Radio 4’s Evan Davis.
The briefing note was issued to help journalists navigate what BBC director general Tim Davie described this week as an “area of controversy.
In an internal briefing note, BBC journalists and production teams were advised that “care is needed” when people are labeled “transphobic” and the term should be interrogated during on-air debate.
The advice featured in a nine-page document on “reporting sex and gender” circulated to the BBC newsroom late last year. Deadline has obtained the briefing, which can be read in full below.
The guidance follows the BBC apologizing to Rowling twice last year. The Harry Potter author was accused of transphobia by trans rights advocates, but the claim was not properly challenged by presenters, including Radio 4’s Evan Davis.
The briefing note was issued to help journalists navigate what BBC director general Tim Davie described this week as an “area of controversy.
- 3/22/2024
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC has said that a radio debate about Jk Rowling broke editorial rules after a presenter failed to properly challenge claims that the Harry Potter author is transphobic.
During a feature on Radio 4’s Pm show in February, host Evan Davis allowed Stacey Henley, a transgender woman, to criticize Rowling’s “nasty views” during a discussion about video game Hogwarts Legacy.
Henley, editor-in-chief of The Gamer, accused the author of pushing “transphobia” and said she was active in campaigning “against trans people.”
Davis said Rowling “wouldn’t say she’s transphobic,” but this attempt to balance the conversation did not come until minutes after Henley’s initial comments. The BBC received 199 complaints about the exchange.
In a ruling on Thursday, the BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (Ecu) said the radio show “did not meet the BBC’s editorial standards of impartiality.” The Ecu considered the matter resolved, however, as...
During a feature on Radio 4’s Pm show in February, host Evan Davis allowed Stacey Henley, a transgender woman, to criticize Rowling’s “nasty views” during a discussion about video game Hogwarts Legacy.
Henley, editor-in-chief of The Gamer, accused the author of pushing “transphobia” and said she was active in campaigning “against trans people.”
Davis said Rowling “wouldn’t say she’s transphobic,” but this attempt to balance the conversation did not come until minutes after Henley’s initial comments. The BBC received 199 complaints about the exchange.
In a ruling on Thursday, the BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (Ecu) said the radio show “did not meet the BBC’s editorial standards of impartiality.” The Ecu considered the matter resolved, however, as...
- 4/13/2023
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC is reportedly preparing to renew its crime drama Strike, which is based on the Cormoran Strike books by Jk Rowling.
The news comes weeks after the broadcaster apologised to the Harry Potter author after its news hosts failed to challenge a guest who called the author transphobic.
A sixth season of Strike has yet to be confirmed. However, Deadline’s Jake Kanter reports that the deal is close to being made.
The Independent has contacted the BBC for confirmation.
Season six will adapt The Ink Black Heart, the sixth novel in Rowling’s detective series, which she wrote under her pseudonym, Robert Galbraith.
The adaptation sees Tom Burke take on the role of gruff private investigator Cormoran Strike alongside Holliday Grainger as his partner Robin Ellacott.
Earlier this month, the BBC received 200 complaints after host Evan Davis allowed a guest on Radio 4’s Pm show to claim Rowling...
The news comes weeks after the broadcaster apologised to the Harry Potter author after its news hosts failed to challenge a guest who called the author transphobic.
A sixth season of Strike has yet to be confirmed. However, Deadline’s Jake Kanter reports that the deal is close to being made.
The Independent has contacted the BBC for confirmation.
Season six will adapt The Ink Black Heart, the sixth novel in Rowling’s detective series, which she wrote under her pseudonym, Robert Galbraith.
The adaptation sees Tom Burke take on the role of gruff private investigator Cormoran Strike alongside Holliday Grainger as his partner Robin Ellacott.
Earlier this month, the BBC received 200 complaints after host Evan Davis allowed a guest on Radio 4’s Pm show to claim Rowling...
- 3/7/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
The BBC reportedly received 199 complaints after Evan Davis allowed a guest on Radio 4’s Pm show to claim Jk Rowling was transphobic without “sufficient” challenge.
Stacey Henley, a transgender woman and editor-in-chief of The Gamer, appeared on the show to discuss the new video game Hogwarts Legacy earlier this month.
The Harry Potter author did not have any involvement in the concept or writing of the game, but will receive royalties from its sales.
During the conversation, Henley spoke about Rowling’s “nasty views” and accused her of pushing “transphobia” and a “campaign against trans people”.
The author has faced a sustained backlash in recent years for statements she’s made about gender ideology, which many critics and prominent voices in the LGBT+ community have described as “transphobic”. Rowling has repeatedly denied that she is transphobic.
The BBC, which “must remain duly impartial” per its own guidelines, later apologised for the exchange,...
Stacey Henley, a transgender woman and editor-in-chief of The Gamer, appeared on the show to discuss the new video game Hogwarts Legacy earlier this month.
The Harry Potter author did not have any involvement in the concept or writing of the game, but will receive royalties from its sales.
During the conversation, Henley spoke about Rowling’s “nasty views” and accused her of pushing “transphobia” and a “campaign against trans people”.
The author has faced a sustained backlash in recent years for statements she’s made about gender ideology, which many critics and prominent voices in the LGBT+ community have described as “transphobic”. Rowling has repeatedly denied that she is transphobic.
The BBC, which “must remain duly impartial” per its own guidelines, later apologised for the exchange,...
- 2/16/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
The BBC received 199 complaints after a prominent news presenter failed to challenge a guest, who claimed that Jk Rowling is transphobic.
Evan Davis allowed Stacey Henley, a transgender woman, to criticize Rowling’s “nasty views” during a discussion about video game Hogwarts Legacy on Radio 4’s Pm show earlier this month.
Henley, editor-in-chief of The Gamer, accused the author of pushing “transphobia” and said she was active in campaigning “against trans people.”
Davis said Rowling “wouldn’t say she’s transphobic,” but this attempt to balance the conversation did not come until minutes after Henley’s initial comments.
The BBC apologized for the exchange after listeners said it presented an “unfair characterization” of Rowling’s views on transgender issues.
“We do accept that there wasn’t sufficient challenge to the claims that were made and that we fell short here,” the BBC said. “This is a difficult and contentious area...
Evan Davis allowed Stacey Henley, a transgender woman, to criticize Rowling’s “nasty views” during a discussion about video game Hogwarts Legacy on Radio 4’s Pm show earlier this month.
Henley, editor-in-chief of The Gamer, accused the author of pushing “transphobia” and said she was active in campaigning “against trans people.”
Davis said Rowling “wouldn’t say she’s transphobic,” but this attempt to balance the conversation did not come until minutes after Henley’s initial comments.
The BBC apologized for the exchange after listeners said it presented an “unfair characterization” of Rowling’s views on transgender issues.
“We do accept that there wasn’t sufficient challenge to the claims that were made and that we fell short here,” the BBC said. “This is a difficult and contentious area...
- 2/16/2023
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
A formidable actress, Laura Dern has been working in Hollywood since age 5. At 13 years old, the daughter of icons Diane Ladd and Bruce Dern became the youngest Miss Golden Globe and soon thereafter earned critical acclaim with her breakout role in Blue Velvet. The 1986 film also marked the first time Dern and director David Lynch would work together throughout her career, a pairing that continues with Twin Peaks’ celebrated return on Showtime.
Known for her highly emotive face,...
Known for her highly emotive face,...
- 6/23/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
Two new Muslim Voices musicals created by the Brooklyn Children’s Theatre will premiere during the month of Ramadan. Together, they will tell stories of what it means to be American and celebrate the recognition of Eid as a public school holiday. These musicals allow non-Muslim and Muslim children alike to experience the culture and everyday experiences of their classmates and neighbors, to learn about the local New York City history, and develop confidence in their own voices and identities. The world premiere of two new musicals that bring Muslim and non-Muslim audiences together around a celebration of diversity and representation.
Brooklyn Children’s Theatre (Bct) is an after school musical theatre program serving over 1000 children in Brooklyn. Professional writers and composers create mini-musicals specifically for Bct’s students to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow as an artist and a person. We believe that theatre should be for Every child,...
Brooklyn Children’s Theatre (Bct) is an after school musical theatre program serving over 1000 children in Brooklyn. Professional writers and composers create mini-musicals specifically for Bct’s students to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow as an artist and a person. We believe that theatre should be for Every child,...
- 5/26/2017
- by BollySpice Editors
- Bollyspice
The Brooklyn Children’s Theatre (Bct) is an after school musical theatre program serving over 1000 children in Brooklyn, New York. Bct was commissioned by the Doris Duke Foundation of Islamic Art to create four original musicals with Muslim protagonists for children to perform in. Two of these musicals will be premiering on December 9, 2016.
Fast Friends is about children fasting for the first time during Ramadan. Fast Friends was written by Amy White Graves and Steve Saari, with contributions from Aizzah Fatima.
Sailimai And The Four Riddles was written by By Scott Evan Davis, Kareem Fahmy, Aizzah Fatima & Chris Heller & the Summer 2016 Muslim Voices Playwriting class. Sailimai And The Four Riddles is based on an Islamic Chinese folk tale: Sailimai must look to her Muslim values to solve a riddle and save her father.
Amy White Graves, Executive Director of Bct states “When we started this project in the summer of...
Fast Friends is about children fasting for the first time during Ramadan. Fast Friends was written by Amy White Graves and Steve Saari, with contributions from Aizzah Fatima.
Sailimai And The Four Riddles was written by By Scott Evan Davis, Kareem Fahmy, Aizzah Fatima & Chris Heller & the Summer 2016 Muslim Voices Playwriting class. Sailimai And The Four Riddles is based on an Islamic Chinese folk tale: Sailimai must look to her Muslim values to solve a riddle and save her father.
Amy White Graves, Executive Director of Bct states “When we started this project in the summer of...
- 12/1/2016
- by BollySpice Editors
- Bollyspice
The Catch was something of a surprise last spring, with a gimmick that pulled you in, but clever writing that kept you going after the series established the somewhat surreal premise.
See our full The Catch Review here
Alice Vaughan (Mireille Enos) runs a serious investigative firm, with top-level clients and people working every angle for her, mostly to keep her clients secure from any number of threats. Her life takes an odd turn when her fiancé, Benjamin Jones (Peter Krause) reveals that he’s been pulling a long con on her.
Now a serious game of cat and mouse goes into full swing, and it seems that Alice might be in over her head.
It’s a show that’s as slick as can be, but manages it without having to dumb down the dialog, or rely on goofball dramatic turns that serve no purpose other than to make sure we have goofball drama.
See our full The Catch Review here
Alice Vaughan (Mireille Enos) runs a serious investigative firm, with top-level clients and people working every angle for her, mostly to keep her clients secure from any number of threats. Her life takes an odd turn when her fiancé, Benjamin Jones (Peter Krause) reveals that he’s been pulling a long con on her.
Now a serious game of cat and mouse goes into full swing, and it seems that Alice might be in over her head.
It’s a show that’s as slick as can be, but manages it without having to dumb down the dialog, or rely on goofball dramatic turns that serve no purpose other than to make sure we have goofball drama.
- 10/6/2016
- by Marc Eastman
- AreYouScreening.com
Anne Robinson: 'Light entertainment is about pretty girls - I never got hired because of my breasts'
Anne Robinson believes TV is primarily concerned about beauty when it comes to women.
While the presenter thinks women are judged by their looks, she told Radio Times that the same does not hold true for men.
"If Huw Edwards or Evan Davis had identical twin sisters, they wouldn't be reading the news or presenting Newsnight," she said.
"I'm not saying they're both ugly. It's just a fact, particularly in light entertainment, that it's all about pretty girls in the front row.
"But I've just never worked within those confines. I never got hired because I had beautiful breasts. I got hired because I could write and I could be funny."
Robinson added: "The trick for women's longevity on television [is that] you've got to be clever, versatile, funny and thin."
She also revealed that she turned down lucrative offers to take part in I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
While the presenter thinks women are judged by their looks, she told Radio Times that the same does not hold true for men.
"If Huw Edwards or Evan Davis had identical twin sisters, they wouldn't be reading the news or presenting Newsnight," she said.
"I'm not saying they're both ugly. It's just a fact, particularly in light entertainment, that it's all about pretty girls in the front row.
"But I've just never worked within those confines. I never got hired because I had beautiful breasts. I got hired because I could write and I could be funny."
Robinson added: "The trick for women's longevity on television [is that] you've got to be clever, versatile, funny and thin."
She also revealed that she turned down lucrative offers to take part in I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
- 8/11/2015
- Digital Spy
Christopher Eccleston's Safe House continued to top the ratings outside of soaps, according to overnight figures for Monday (April 27).
The ITV drama's second episode brought in 4.57m (21.4%) at 9pm (219k/1.4%), losing around 700,000 viewers from last week's opener. Earlier, Wild Ireland interested 3.04m (14.3%) at 8pm (129k/0.6%).
On BBC One, Evan Davis's interview with Snp leader Nicola Sturgeon was seen by 2.38m (11.9%) at 7.30pm, while Who Will Win the Election? followed with 2.19m (10.0%) at 8.30pm. New Tricks entertained 2.57m (12.1%) at 9pm.
BBC Two's Alex Polizzi: Chefs on Trial continued with 1.28m (6.0%) at 8pm, before Inside Harley Street gathered 1.38m (6.5%) at 9pm, and Jack Dee's Election Helpdesk informed 1.15m (6.7%) at 10pm.
The Secrets of Sports Direct brought in 1.75m (8.1%) for Channel 4 at 8pm (298k/1.4%), while Skint was watched by 1.26m (5.9%) at 9pm (205k/1.2%).
Over on Channel 5, Police Interceptors thrilled 638k (3.0%) at 8pm (86k/0.7%), and Gotham entertained 789k (3.7%) at 9pm.
The ITV drama's second episode brought in 4.57m (21.4%) at 9pm (219k/1.4%), losing around 700,000 viewers from last week's opener. Earlier, Wild Ireland interested 3.04m (14.3%) at 8pm (129k/0.6%).
On BBC One, Evan Davis's interview with Snp leader Nicola Sturgeon was seen by 2.38m (11.9%) at 7.30pm, while Who Will Win the Election? followed with 2.19m (10.0%) at 8.30pm. New Tricks entertained 2.57m (12.1%) at 9pm.
BBC Two's Alex Polizzi: Chefs on Trial continued with 1.28m (6.0%) at 8pm, before Inside Harley Street gathered 1.38m (6.5%) at 9pm, and Jack Dee's Election Helpdesk informed 1.15m (6.7%) at 10pm.
The Secrets of Sports Direct brought in 1.75m (8.1%) for Channel 4 at 8pm (298k/1.4%), while Skint was watched by 1.26m (5.9%) at 9pm (205k/1.2%).
Over on Channel 5, Police Interceptors thrilled 638k (3.0%) at 8pm (86k/0.7%), and Gotham entertained 789k (3.7%) at 9pm.
- 4/28/2015
- Digital Spy
MasterChef continued to dominate the ratings outside of soaps on Wednesday (April 22), according to overnight figures.
The BBC One cooking show entertained 5.1m (26.2%) at 8pm, while Secret Britain continued with 4.02m (19.9%) at 9pm. Earlier in the evening, Nigel Farage's interview with Evan Davis brought in 2.54m (14.0%), double the figures achieved by Ed Miliband and David Cameron's interviews.
On BBC Two, Alex Polizzi: Chefs on Trial averaged 820k (4.2%) at 8pm, before World's Richest Terror Army brought in 1.11m (5.5%), and Qi interested 950k (5.6%) at 10pm. Newsnight was seen by 730k (6.2%) at 10.30pm.
ITV's Give a Pet a Home dipped slightly to 2.45m (12.5%) at 8pm, while Newzoids lost over a million viewers for its second episode with 2.27m (11.2%) at 9pm. The Delivery Man gathered 1.39m (6.9%) at 9.30pm.
Channel 4's The Island with Bear Grylls continued with 2.06m (10.2%) at 9pm (273k/1.8%), while First Dates entertained 1.09m (7.3%) at 10pm (142k/1.9%).
Over on...
The BBC One cooking show entertained 5.1m (26.2%) at 8pm, while Secret Britain continued with 4.02m (19.9%) at 9pm. Earlier in the evening, Nigel Farage's interview with Evan Davis brought in 2.54m (14.0%), double the figures achieved by Ed Miliband and David Cameron's interviews.
On BBC Two, Alex Polizzi: Chefs on Trial averaged 820k (4.2%) at 8pm, before World's Richest Terror Army brought in 1.11m (5.5%), and Qi interested 950k (5.6%) at 10pm. Newsnight was seen by 730k (6.2%) at 10.30pm.
ITV's Give a Pet a Home dipped slightly to 2.45m (12.5%) at 8pm, while Newzoids lost over a million viewers for its second episode with 2.27m (11.2%) at 9pm. The Delivery Man gathered 1.39m (6.9%) at 9.30pm.
Channel 4's The Island with Bear Grylls continued with 2.06m (10.2%) at 9pm (273k/1.8%), while First Dates entertained 1.09m (7.3%) at 10pm (142k/1.9%).
Over on...
- 4/23/2015
- Digital Spy
MasterChef was the most watched programme outside of soaps on Wednesday (April 15), according to overnight data.
The BBC One cooking series continued with 4.87m at 9pm. Elsewhere, Evan Davis's interview with David Cameron gathered 1.17m (10.0%) at 7.30pm, and Secret Britain averaged 3.75m (18.6%) at 9pm.
The first episode of ITV's Give a Pet a Home was seen by 2.53m (13.0%) at 8pm (251k/1.2% on +1), while Newzoids debuted to 3.34m (16.3%) at 9pm (313k/1.9%). The Delivery Man entertained 2.45m (12.2%) at 9.30pm (125k/0.9%).
On BBC Two, Collectaholics continued with 1.17m (6.8%) at 7pm, before The Ladykillers: Pest Detectives attracted 940k (4.9%) at 8pm, and Kill The Christians averaged 930k (4.6%) at 9pm. Qi followed with 850k (5.2%) at 10pm, while Newsnight aired to 640k (5.3%).
Channel 4's The Island with Bear Grylls continued to perform well with 2.21m (10.9%) tuning in for its third episode at 9pm (283k/1.9%). First Dates continued with 1.23m (8.4%) at 10pm (67k/0.9%).
Channel 5's Nightmare...
The BBC One cooking series continued with 4.87m at 9pm. Elsewhere, Evan Davis's interview with David Cameron gathered 1.17m (10.0%) at 7.30pm, and Secret Britain averaged 3.75m (18.6%) at 9pm.
The first episode of ITV's Give a Pet a Home was seen by 2.53m (13.0%) at 8pm (251k/1.2% on +1), while Newzoids debuted to 3.34m (16.3%) at 9pm (313k/1.9%). The Delivery Man entertained 2.45m (12.2%) at 9.30pm (125k/0.9%).
On BBC Two, Collectaholics continued with 1.17m (6.8%) at 7pm, before The Ladykillers: Pest Detectives attracted 940k (4.9%) at 8pm, and Kill The Christians averaged 930k (4.6%) at 9pm. Qi followed with 850k (5.2%) at 10pm, while Newsnight aired to 640k (5.3%).
Channel 4's The Island with Bear Grylls continued to perform well with 2.21m (10.9%) tuning in for its third episode at 9pm (283k/1.9%). First Dates continued with 1.23m (8.4%) at 10pm (67k/0.9%).
Channel 5's Nightmare...
- 4/16/2015
- Digital Spy
Evan Davis has been spotted shooting a cameo for the second series of W1A.
The Newsnight presenter was seen wearing a leg brace and using a walking stick for his scenes in the BAFTA-winning BBC mockumentary.
Davis was filming alongside series lead Hugh Bonneville, Monica Dolan and latest addition Samuel West.
The series, which is a follow-up to Olympics comedy Twenty Twelve, will see the corporation's Head of Values Ian Fletcher (Bonneville) struggling with the issue of the BBC's charter renewal.
W1A was renewed in September for one 60-minute episode and three 30-minute episodes.
The first series, which featured cameos from Clare Balding and Alan Yentob, attracted 1.6 million viewers to BBC Two for its opening episode.
Watch a clip from W1A below:...
The Newsnight presenter was seen wearing a leg brace and using a walking stick for his scenes in the BAFTA-winning BBC mockumentary.
Davis was filming alongside series lead Hugh Bonneville, Monica Dolan and latest addition Samuel West.
The series, which is a follow-up to Olympics comedy Twenty Twelve, will see the corporation's Head of Values Ian Fletcher (Bonneville) struggling with the issue of the BBC's charter renewal.
W1A was renewed in September for one 60-minute episode and three 30-minute episodes.
The first series, which featured cameos from Clare Balding and Alan Yentob, attracted 1.6 million viewers to BBC Two for its opening episode.
Watch a clip from W1A below:...
- 2/13/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC is to study global prosperity and affluence in the new A Richer World season.
BBC World News and BBC World Service will host the three-month-long season, featuring content across TV, radio and online platforms.
The World Debate: A Richer World - But For Whom?, a live TV debate from the Davos World Economic Forum hosted by Evan Davis, will launch the season on January 9.
Other programmes will include documentary Fridgeonomics, The Best Nightclub in Africa?, BBC Soup (which takes a crowdfunding business idea from Detroit around the world) and radio documentary series Living India and My Africa.
Director of World Service Group Fran Unsworth said: "The Richer World season brings together the best of our international services to provide dynamic, engaging content for our 265 million viewers and listeners around the world.
"With projects such as Soup and Fridgeonomics, the teams bring creative new angles to hard and soft...
BBC World News and BBC World Service will host the three-month-long season, featuring content across TV, radio and online platforms.
The World Debate: A Richer World - But For Whom?, a live TV debate from the Davos World Economic Forum hosted by Evan Davis, will launch the season on January 9.
Other programmes will include documentary Fridgeonomics, The Best Nightclub in Africa?, BBC Soup (which takes a crowdfunding business idea from Detroit around the world) and radio documentary series Living India and My Africa.
Director of World Service Group Fran Unsworth said: "The Richer World season brings together the best of our international services to provide dynamic, engaging content for our 265 million viewers and listeners around the world.
"With projects such as Soup and Fridgeonomics, the teams bring creative new angles to hard and soft...
- 1/9/2015
- Digital Spy
Russell Brand certainly put his foot in his mouth this time… The comedian has caused major backlash after he admitted that he's "open-minded" about 9/11 conspiracy theories during an interview with BBC's Newsnight. "We have to remain open-minded to any kind of possibility," Brand told host Evan Davis. "Do you trust the American government? Do you trust the British government? What I do think is very interesting is the relationship that the Bush family have had for a long time with the bin Laden family." He continued, "What I do think is very interesting is the way then even the BBC report the events in Ottawa to subtly build an anti-Islamic narrative. I...
- 10/24/2014
- E! Online
Russell Brand has made another memorable appearance on BBC Two's Newsnight, largely refusing to engage with the line of questioning from host Evan Davis and also admitting controversially that he is "open-minded" about the culprits behind the 9/11 attacks.
Brand was appearing on the flagship BBC show to promote his new book Revolution and also used the opportunity to plug his YouTube vlogger series The Trews.
The raucous interview's most talked-about moment came when Brand was asked about comments in his book that suggested the American government can't be ruled out as being behind the Twin Towers attacks.
"I think it is interesting at this time when we have so little trust in our political figures, where ordinary people have so little trust in their media, we have to remain open-minded to any kind of possibility," said Brand.
Russell Brand threatened with arrest during Fox News protest
Russell Brand responds...
Brand was appearing on the flagship BBC show to promote his new book Revolution and also used the opportunity to plug his YouTube vlogger series The Trews.
The raucous interview's most talked-about moment came when Brand was asked about comments in his book that suggested the American government can't be ruled out as being behind the Twin Towers attacks.
"I think it is interesting at this time when we have so little trust in our political figures, where ordinary people have so little trust in their media, we have to remain open-minded to any kind of possibility," said Brand.
Russell Brand threatened with arrest during Fox News protest
Russell Brand responds...
- 10/24/2014
- Digital Spy
Evan Davis has been named Journalist of the Year at the 2014 European Diversity Awards.
The Newsnight and Dragon's Den presenter received the award at London's Natural History Museum this evening (October 2).
The 52-year-old - who is openly gay - shared this year's award with Paralympian turned broadcaster Ade Adepitan.
The judging panel praised Davis for his work as a high-profile campaigner on the issue of equality.
BBC newsreader Jane Hill hosted the ceremony, and praised the annual event for recognising "excellence" in "all aspects of diversity".
"It was a privilege to present the awards to so many deserving individuals," she added.
Davis's triumph comes just days after he made his debut as Jeremy Paxman's replacement on Newsnight. His first appearance was seen by 500,000 viewers on Monday (September 29).
The Newsnight and Dragon's Den presenter received the award at London's Natural History Museum this evening (October 2).
The 52-year-old - who is openly gay - shared this year's award with Paralympian turned broadcaster Ade Adepitan.
The judging panel praised Davis for his work as a high-profile campaigner on the issue of equality.
BBC newsreader Jane Hill hosted the ceremony, and praised the annual event for recognising "excellence" in "all aspects of diversity".
"It was a privilege to present the awards to so many deserving individuals," she added.
Davis's triumph comes just days after he made his debut as Jeremy Paxman's replacement on Newsnight. His first appearance was seen by 500,000 viewers on Monday (September 29).
- 10/2/2014
- Digital Spy
Broadway's 40 theatres aren't the only places to catch performances from your favorite stars Well after Broadway orchestra's begin their overtures, ensemble members take their dance breaks, and performers belt out their eleven- o'clock numbers, the party continues at various cabaret venues throughout New York City. Below, BroadwayWorld brings you some cabaret highlights for this week as picked by our theatre editors, including Smile A Broadway Reunion Concert, Celebrating Adolph Green - 100 Years of Wonderful, Jamie deRoy and Friends, Randy Graff Re-Made In Brooklyn, and The Songs of Scott Evan Davis, featuring Karen Mason, Lisa Howard amp more.
- 9/28/2014
- by BWW Special Coverage
- BroadwayWorld.com
Broadway's 40 theatres aren't the only places to catch performances from your favorite stars Well after Broadway orchestra's begin their overtures, ensemble members take their dance breaks, and performers belt out their eleven- o'clock numbers, the party continues at various cabaret venues throughout New York City. Below, BroadwayWorld brings you some cabaret highlights for this week as picked by our theatre editors, including Smile A Broadway Reunion Concert, Celebrating Adolph Green - 100 Years of Wonderful, Jamie deRoy and Friends, Randy Graff Re-Made In Brooklyn, and The Songs of Scott Evan Davis, featuring Karen Mason, Lisa Howard amp more.
- 9/21/2014
- by BWW Special Coverage
- BroadwayWorld.com
Evan Davis is to replace Jeremy Paxman on 'Newsnight'. The 'Dragons' Den' host been named the lead presenter of the BBC Two current affairs programme and will front the show three nights a week, the BBC has confirmed. Evan, 52, who previously served as Newsnight's former economics editor, will leave his role on BBC Radio 4's 'Today' programme to take up his new TV role in the autumn. He said: ''I can't deny that I feel terribly sad to be leaving the 'Today' programme. I have been there for over six years and those have been some of the most satisfying of...
- 7/21/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
Evan Davis is to replace Jeremy Paxman on Newsnight.
The broadcaster will leave his role on BBC Radio 4's Today programme for the flagship BBC Two current affairs show.
He will now take on the lead presenter position on the programme, following Paxman's departure after over 20 years.
"I can't deny that I feel terribly sad to be leaving the Today programme. I have been there for over six years and those have been some of the most satisfying of my career," said Davis. "That programme is put together by remarkably few people, and I can't praise them highly enough for their professionalism and companionship.
"But at the same time, how could I turn down the offer of this role on Newsnight, treading in the footsteps of some of the best television presenters in the business? While it is a scary prospect, it will be an adventure and a challenge, and...
The broadcaster will leave his role on BBC Radio 4's Today programme for the flagship BBC Two current affairs show.
He will now take on the lead presenter position on the programme, following Paxman's departure after over 20 years.
"I can't deny that I feel terribly sad to be leaving the Today programme. I have been there for over six years and those have been some of the most satisfying of my career," said Davis. "That programme is put together by remarkably few people, and I can't praise them highly enough for their professionalism and companionship.
"But at the same time, how could I turn down the offer of this role on Newsnight, treading in the footsteps of some of the best television presenters in the business? While it is a scary prospect, it will be an adventure and a challenge, and...
- 7/21/2014
- Digital Spy
Mary Berry Cooks began with impressive ratings for BBC Two on Monday night (March 3).
The Great British Bake Off star's new series launched with 3.20 million (13.2%) at 8.30pm. Earlier, University Challenge quizzed 3.06m (13.0%) at 8pm, while Evan Davis's Mind the Gap: London vs The Rest gathered 1.63m (7.0%) at 9pm.
ITV's Dci Banks topped the ratings overall outside of soaps with 4.58m (18.6%) at 9pm (335,000/2.1% on +1). New series I Never Knew That About Britain opened with 3.54m (15.1%) at 8pm (179k/0.7%).
On BBC One, Silk dropped over 500k from last week's opener to 4.13m (17.6%) at 9pm. Earlier, Panorama interested 2.96m (12.3%) at 8.30pm.
Channel 4's One Born Every Minute returned with 2.08m (8.9%) at 9pm (294k/1.9%). 8 Out of 10 Cats amused 1.02m (6.3%) at 10pm (193k/2.3%). Earlier, Food Unwrapped appealed to 824k (3.4%) at 8.30pm.
On Channel 5, Police Interceptors attracted 1.09m (4.6%) at 8pm. Can't Pay? We'll Take It Away! brought in 1.92m (8.2%) at 9pm (139k/0.9%), followed...
The Great British Bake Off star's new series launched with 3.20 million (13.2%) at 8.30pm. Earlier, University Challenge quizzed 3.06m (13.0%) at 8pm, while Evan Davis's Mind the Gap: London vs The Rest gathered 1.63m (7.0%) at 9pm.
ITV's Dci Banks topped the ratings overall outside of soaps with 4.58m (18.6%) at 9pm (335,000/2.1% on +1). New series I Never Knew That About Britain opened with 3.54m (15.1%) at 8pm (179k/0.7%).
On BBC One, Silk dropped over 500k from last week's opener to 4.13m (17.6%) at 9pm. Earlier, Panorama interested 2.96m (12.3%) at 8.30pm.
Channel 4's One Born Every Minute returned with 2.08m (8.9%) at 9pm (294k/1.9%). 8 Out of 10 Cats amused 1.02m (6.3%) at 10pm (193k/2.3%). Earlier, Food Unwrapped appealed to 824k (3.4%) at 8.30pm.
On Channel 5, Police Interceptors attracted 1.09m (4.6%) at 8pm. Can't Pay? We'll Take It Away! brought in 1.92m (8.2%) at 9pm (139k/0.9%), followed...
- 3/5/2014
- Digital Spy
When BBC Today programme presenter Evan Davis tried to get a job for a Latvian he met at a friend's BBQ by telling his 125,000 Twitter followers that this "lovely guy" would have to go home unless he got one, he evidently didn't think Latvia would take offence. But it has. The broadcaster has found himself under fire from the Latvian authorities who have accused him of comparing their country to Mordor, the realm of the evil Sauron in The Lord of the Rings. "Latvia is not Mordor. Economy is on the rise for the 12 consecutive quarter and unemployment down + the country is gorgeous," the Latvia Institute tweeted back. So there.
BBCTwitterBloggingLatviaJRR TolkienLord of the RingsMonkey
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- 8/30/2013
- by Monkey
- The Guardian - Film News
We're saying goodbye to a beloved telly friend and welcoming back some attractive assassins in this week's Must-See TV - but there's more to look forward to than Skins and Nikita!
Read on for full details of the other great programmes hitting your box in the next seven days...
Skins: Monday (August 5) at 10pm on E4
Brace yourselves, because the conclusion of Cook's (Jack O'Connell) story this week is definitely, almost certainly, probably the final ever episode of Skins. Some of us here at DS Towers have grown from adolescents to adults alongside Effy, Cassie and the other Skins favourites featured in this trio of catch-ups, so it'll be a sad moment when those credits roll one last time.
Having witnessed his drug-dealing boss kill poor little Lucien Laviscount for sleeping with his missus - something of which he is also guilty - Cook goes on the run with...
Read on for full details of the other great programmes hitting your box in the next seven days...
Skins: Monday (August 5) at 10pm on E4
Brace yourselves, because the conclusion of Cook's (Jack O'Connell) story this week is definitely, almost certainly, probably the final ever episode of Skins. Some of us here at DS Towers have grown from adolescents to adults alongside Effy, Cassie and the other Skins favourites featured in this trio of catch-ups, so it'll be a sad moment when those credits roll one last time.
Having witnessed his drug-dealing boss kill poor little Lucien Laviscount for sleeping with his missus - something of which he is also guilty - Cook goes on the run with...
- 8/4/2013
- Digital Spy
London - In another blunder at the BBC News division, the U.K. public broadcaster on Friday had to apologize to Britain's chief rabbi after asking him a question about violence in the Middle East on a radio show without telling him that he was still on air. The rabbi, Jonathan Sacks, had appeared on the BBC's Radio 4 early Friday to present the popular "Thought for the Day:" segment on the "Today" morning show. After the segment, host Evan Davis asked him about his take on the reasons for the violence in Gaza. "I think it's got to do with
read more...
read more...
- 11/16/2012
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"So, what the hell is James Gray, anyway?" Evan Davis at the House Next Door: "That's the question Paris-based Hollywood Reporter critic and Gray enthusiast Jordan Mintzer attempts to answer in his new book, James Gray. Comprised of interviews with Gray and his collaborators, along with storyboards, annotated script pages, production stills, and frame grabs, Mintzer's volume is the first full-length study of Gray in any language. It is, unfortunately, only being published in France. But fear not: Synecdoche has released a bilingual edition that can be purchased on their website for a cool $65 Usd."
Gray will be on hand this evening for a Q&A following a screening of We Own the Night (2007), part of BAMcinématek's Brooklyn Close Up series. And in December, Moving Image Source ran an excerpt from the book's chapter on The Yards (1999).
Meantime, Gray's wrapped Low Life, his first period film. Featuring Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Renner and Marion Cotillard,...
Gray will be on hand this evening for a Q&A following a screening of We Own the Night (2007), part of BAMcinématek's Brooklyn Close Up series. And in December, Moving Image Source ran an excerpt from the book's chapter on The Yards (1999).
Meantime, Gray's wrapped Low Life, his first period film. Featuring Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Renner and Marion Cotillard,...
- 3/26/2012
- MUBI
It is absurd to imply, as David Cameron has, that hearty commercial films are starved of cash by arthouse conspirators
They say that in politics, if you're in a hole, you should stop digging. And yet there's something about the subject of British cinema that gets the prime minister repeatedly reaching for his spade. Perhaps it's something to do with Meryl Streep's Maggie gazing down from every bus, and maybe that film's sentimentalisation of a Tory leader has emboldened David Cameron to believe this is solid ground for him. He will keep on making these eye-catching and brazen announcements about British film – a topic on which, as Clement Attlee once said to Harold Laski, a period of silence on his part would be most welcome.
On Radio 4's Today programme, Evan Davis cheekily asked him to comment on a listener's view that in a Cameron biopic, Malcolm McDowell should...
They say that in politics, if you're in a hole, you should stop digging. And yet there's something about the subject of British cinema that gets the prime minister repeatedly reaching for his spade. Perhaps it's something to do with Meryl Streep's Maggie gazing down from every bus, and maybe that film's sentimentalisation of a Tory leader has emboldened David Cameron to believe this is solid ground for him. He will keep on making these eye-catching and brazen announcements about British film – a topic on which, as Clement Attlee once said to Harold Laski, a period of silence on his part would be most welcome.
On Radio 4's Today programme, Evan Davis cheekily asked him to comment on a listener's view that in a Cameron biopic, Malcolm McDowell should...
- 1/12/2012
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
It may be a time of austerity in the UK but not so in the Dragons’ Den … business is booming as the self-made multimillionaires return, ready to invest in the best of Britain’s entrepreneurs.
While the rules of the Den remain the same, there is one change in the form of new Dragon Hilary Devey, who joins returning Dragons Duncan Bannatyne, Theo Paphitis, Deborah Meaden and Peter Jones.
Having scrimped, saved and self-sacrificed to make her fortune in the haulage industry, Hilary has her own views on the products and businesses brought before her, and she’s more than happy to take on her rivals in order to get the best deal.
Georgette Hewitt from Kent finds out exactly how nerve-wracking it can be to pitch to the Dragons. It’s a real battle to compose her nerves but one she must win in order to tempt the multimillionaires...
While the rules of the Den remain the same, there is one change in the form of new Dragon Hilary Devey, who joins returning Dragons Duncan Bannatyne, Theo Paphitis, Deborah Meaden and Peter Jones.
Having scrimped, saved and self-sacrificed to make her fortune in the haulage industry, Hilary has her own views on the products and businesses brought before her, and she’s more than happy to take on her rivals in order to get the best deal.
Georgette Hewitt from Kent finds out exactly how nerve-wracking it can be to pitch to the Dragons. It’s a real battle to compose her nerves but one she must win in order to tempt the multimillionaires...
- 7/31/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Dragon’s Den, The Apprentice, Britain’s Got Talent, Masterchef, Take me out, Towie, Jamie Oliver’s ‘Dream School’ , X-Factor, Come Dine With me, Coach Trip, Dancing on Ice and more battle it out at this year’s prestigious 1st annual National Reality TV Awards.
National Reality TV Awards is set to become one of the biggest worldwide Television awards shows specifically targeting the different sub-genres that make up Reality TV. Nrta (National Reality TV Awards) will be launched in London, UK on the 6th of July 2011 whilst the official Us version of the awards ceremony will be held in Los Angeles on the 1st of December 2011.
The big hitters this year include; Channel 4’s ‘The People’s Supermarket’ nominated for a record four categories including; Best Business Show, Most Inspiring TV Show, Best Docusoap and Best Social Experiment. Jamie Oliver’s Dream School securing three nominations for Best Social Experiment Show,...
National Reality TV Awards is set to become one of the biggest worldwide Television awards shows specifically targeting the different sub-genres that make up Reality TV. Nrta (National Reality TV Awards) will be launched in London, UK on the 6th of July 2011 whilst the official Us version of the awards ceremony will be held in Los Angeles on the 1st of December 2011.
The big hitters this year include; Channel 4’s ‘The People’s Supermarket’ nominated for a record four categories including; Best Business Show, Most Inspiring TV Show, Best Docusoap and Best Social Experiment. Jamie Oliver’s Dream School securing three nominations for Best Social Experiment Show,...
- 4/26/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Zoe Williams on the people hitting the headlines in the past seven days
Sheikh down
Sarah Ferguson
I don't want to be a bore, but we could really simplify these royal scandals, where a lady of the outer circle promises a fake Mr Moneypants some top-notch Windsor face-time for a fiver and a packet of limited-edition Quavers. The palace should issue some figures on how often a sheikh, or a tycoon, or a Texan, has approached a royal with an offer of money for access, and actually meant it. If it's all the time – if this was the fifth time in a week Fergie (pictured) had been offered £27,000 in used notes, then fine, fair enough, she got caught in a sting and it could happen to anyone.
But I suspect it's never. I suspect Fergie is never approached by "businessmen". I suspect sheikhs never call meetings with Sophie Windsor, or...
Sheikh down
Sarah Ferguson
I don't want to be a bore, but we could really simplify these royal scandals, where a lady of the outer circle promises a fake Mr Moneypants some top-notch Windsor face-time for a fiver and a packet of limited-edition Quavers. The palace should issue some figures on how often a sheikh, or a tycoon, or a Texan, has approached a royal with an offer of money for access, and actually meant it. If it's all the time – if this was the fifth time in a week Fergie (pictured) had been offered £27,000 in used notes, then fine, fair enough, she got caught in a sting and it could happen to anyone.
But I suspect it's never. I suspect Fergie is never approached by "businessmen". I suspect sheikhs never call meetings with Sophie Windsor, or...
- 5/28/2010
- by Zoe Williams
- The Guardian - Film News
Radio 4's Mark Lawson runs into trouble after detecting 'hints of Irish' in Russell Crowe's northern accent for Robin Hood
As Hollywood stars go, Russell Crowe is of the more opinionated variety. Just ask TV producer Malcolm Gerrie. So you could forgive Mark Lawson a little trepidation when he suggested to the actor that his accent in Robin Hood had "hints of Irish". The result: radio gold.
Lawson questioned Crowe for BBC Radio 4's Front Row. The Australian star was already in a bad mood after a book claimed he had refused to say one of the most famous lines in his Oscar-winning turn in Gladiator. It was about to get worse (hear for yourself 5 mins 45 seconds in).
Lawson: "The accent you've given him, there are hints to me of Irish but what were you thinking of in those terms?"
Crowe: "You've got dead ears mate. You've seriously got...
As Hollywood stars go, Russell Crowe is of the more opinionated variety. Just ask TV producer Malcolm Gerrie. So you could forgive Mark Lawson a little trepidation when he suggested to the actor that his accent in Robin Hood had "hints of Irish". The result: radio gold.
Lawson questioned Crowe for BBC Radio 4's Front Row. The Australian star was already in a bad mood after a book claimed he had refused to say one of the most famous lines in his Oscar-winning turn in Gladiator. It was about to get worse (hear for yourself 5 mins 45 seconds in).
Lawson: "The accent you've given him, there are hints to me of Irish but what were you thinking of in those terms?"
Crowe: "You've got dead ears mate. You've seriously got...
- 5/14/2010
- by John Plunkett
- The Guardian - Film News
BBC Sport presenter Clare Balding is among the names rumoured to be in the running to take over The Apprentice: You're Fired. Adrian Chiles's decision to move from the BBC to ITV earlier this week has left his role on the reality series spinoff open. Balding, who has appeared as a panellist on the show in previous series, has been mentioned as a potential new host, according to The Guardian. BBC business editor Robert Peston has been linked to the post by The Sun, while Evan Davis, Chiles's former Working Lunch co-presenter Adam Shaw, newsreader Sophie Raworth and BBC economics editor Stephanie Flanders have also (more)...
- 4/21/2010
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Movies are made up of images, even the bad ones. But the bad movies rarely leave any images lingering in your brain. The great films are the ones making great images. A great image is many things, by nature diffuse, and we might agree that any great image moves even when stopped still, opening its own cinematic world. Thus, The Notebook's decision to celebrate our recent decade not with a list but with this stream. Each contributor was asked to pick 1 film he or she wants to remember from the 2000s, select 1 image from that film to remember it by, and write one sentence to supplement their selection. We've done our best to craft not simply a grab bag but a cogent flow of the indelible, one image speaking to the next on a variety of registers: from film to film, between color and compositional rhymes, and, as you'll read,...
- 1/16/2010
- MUBI
FlashForward's ratings continue to be affected by the clash with ITV1's Murderland, overnight viewing figures show. Episode five, titled 'Gimme Some Truth', pulled in 2.66m (11.1%) for Five, compared to Murderland's 5.49m (22.8%). The 9pm show was down slightly from last week's instalment, which also lost viewers to the Robbie Coltrane-fronted drama. Also at 9pm, BBC One's Life had 5.27m (21.9%), 1.26m (5.2%) watched The World's Greatest Money Maker: Evan Davis Meets Warren Buffett on BBC Two, and Channel 4's Race And Intelligence: Science's Last Taboo managed 1.02m (4.5%). University Challenge and (more)...
- 10/27/2009
- by By Dan French
- Digital Spy
The arrest of the director Roman Polanksi on Sunday (read FilmShaft’s original report on the incident Here), has stoked the ire of the entertainment establishment, with French culture minister Frederic Mitterand joining the clamour of stars and industry insiders, Monica Belluci and Harvey Weinstein amongst them, who see the filmmaker’s surprise arrest on 32 year old child sex charges as an affront to common sense.
The extraordinary row has put the French minister on a war footing with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office, who intend to make good on the arrest warrant originally issued in 1978 subject to successful extradition to the Us from Switzerland, where Polanksi has been in custody since Sunday morning.
Polanksi, now 76, who has a home in Switzerland and has visited the country many times over a period of 15 years, had assumed he’d be safe as he attended the Zurich Film Festival to accept a lifetime achievement award.
The extraordinary row has put the French minister on a war footing with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office, who intend to make good on the arrest warrant originally issued in 1978 subject to successful extradition to the Us from Switzerland, where Polanksi has been in custody since Sunday morning.
Polanksi, now 76, who has a home in Switzerland and has visited the country many times over a period of 15 years, had assumed he’d be safe as he attended the Zurich Film Festival to accept a lifetime achievement award.
- 9/28/2009
- by Ed Whitfield
- FilmShaft.com
More than 4 million tuned in for a new series of Grand Designs on Channel 4 on Wednesday, early figures suggest. The home renovation series - fronted by Kevin McCloud - launched with 4.12m (17.4%) in the 9pm hour, equalling the audience for the final episode of The Secret Life Of Elephants on BBC One. A further 224k (1.4%) watched from 10pm on Channel 4+1. ITV1 managed 3.56m (15%) for a rerun of Taggart at the same time, while on BBC Two, the final episode of The City Uncovered With Evan Davis brought in 1.41m (6%). Five had 1.07m (5.3%) for the Van Damme action flick The Hard Corps. Before Grand Designs, a new episode of Relocation, Relocation took a healthy 3.1m (12.6%), with a further 228k (1.1%) on timeshift. Channel 4's average primetime share was 11.6%, while Channel 4+1 averaged 0.9%. ITV1 won the 8pm hour with 5.33m (more)...
- 1/30/2009
- by By Neil Wilkes
- Digital Spy
A one-off drama based on the shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes pulled in just 1.4 million viewers to ITV1 on Wednesday. Stockwell, recreating the controversial chain of events leading to de Menezes' death at Stockwell tube station in July 2005, pulled in just 1.39m (6%) in the 9pm hour. ITV was beaten by all other terrestrial channels over the period, including Five, which enjoyed an audience of 2.1m (10%) for Wesley Snipes thriller movie The Contractor. BBC One won the slot with 4.17m (17.9%) for the second episode of nature documentary The Secret Life Of Elephants. Channel 4 had an impressive 3.92m (16.9%) for the final episode of Big Chef Takes On Little Chef, with an additional 179k (1.1%) on Channel 4+1. BBC Two's The City Uncovered With Evan Davis drew 1.61m (7%). ITV1 earlier won the 8pm hour with 4.9m (20.5%) for The Bill, (more)...
- 1/25/2009
- by By Neil Wilkes
- Digital Spy
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