BBC director general Tim Davie has said that the corporation has been “let down” by the scandals involving Huw Edwards and Jermaine Jenas.
In an email to staff, the BBC’s boss bemoaned a string of misconduct sagas, which have also embroiled Strictly Come Dancing, the broadcaster’s biggest show.
Davie told colleagues that it had been a “demanding” few months for the BBC, but lessons will be learned and the corporation’s workplace culture will be improved.
“The shocking news about Huw Edwards, and other stories concerning some of our high-profile shows, have put the BBC in the spotlight,” Davie said in an email.
“It can be challenging for us all when the BBC becomes the headline. We work for this wonderful organisation because we care about what it stands for and the role it plays in society. I know we have all felt let down and worried about the impact on the BBC.
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“However, we hold ourselves to the highest standards and we know there will be lessons we can learn to ensure we have the strongest possible workplace culture.”
Edwards resigned in April and later admitted to possessing child abuse images. The One Show presenter Jenas was fired last week for allegedly sending inappropriate messages to female colleagues. He has since apologized for his actions.
Strictly Come Dancing is preparing to return to screens after being dogged by misconduct complaints. Professional dancer Graziano Di Prima was fired for allegedly kicking Zara McDermott, while Giovanni Pernice’s future on the show remains uncertain following a complaint about his training methods from Amanda Abbington, the Sherlock actress.
The BBC board has commissioned an independent review of the corporation’s workplace culture. Directors are yet to announce who will lead the review.
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