BBC Breakfast host Jon Kay has come under fire for his interview with a survivor of Jimmy Savile's abuse. The interview, which took place on BBC Breakfast, was criticized by viewers who accused Kay of 'victim-blaming'.
The uncomfortable interview
Kay and his co-host Sally Nugent were speaking with Susan, a victim of Savile, ahead of the release of the controversial drama series called The Reckoning. Susan bravely opened up about her experience and how she was not taken seriously when she first spoke out in the 1970s.
She recalled how people would laugh when she discussed her abuse, explaining: "All the years that I had talked about it previously - people just laughed because they didn't take it seriously."
During the interview, Kay responded by asking Susan, "They laughed?" This question sparked criticism from viewers who felt that he was asking Susan to justify why she had been laughed at.
Backlash and accusations of victim-blaming
Viewers took to social media to express their displeasure with Kay's approach. Many accused him of victim-blaming and lacking empathy towards Susan, a survivor of a BBC-backed sexual predator.
One viewer wrote: "#BBCBreakfast Jon Kay victim blaming, BBC 101." Another commented: "This woman is a victim of a BBC-backed sexual predator... Kay not showing much empathy towards her."
Another viewer questioned Kay's question, saying: "Did Jon just ask 'why she laughed'?"
One viewer described the interview as "uncomfortable" and criticized the repeated questioning of the victim. They stated: "This just felt wrong on every level. The victim was obviously still traumatized by the past events, and yet she was inappropriately and repeatedly questioned, by the very institution that continually turned a blind eye, to allow his vile abuse. An uncomfortable watch!!"
The Reckoning: A series exploring Savile's crimes
The Reckoning is a four-part drama that delves into the life of Jimmy Savile and his horrific crimes. Savile, once an influential celebrity, is now one of the most reviled figures in modern history due to revelations of extensive abuse.
The drama aims to shed light on how Savile used his celebrity status and powerful connections to conceal his crimes and exploit institutional failings. It also emphasizes the importance of openly discussing and confronting abuse.
The team behind the series has worked closely with survivors of Savile's abuse to ensure their experiences are portrayed with sensitivity and respect. Extensive research and published accounts have also been used to bring the story to life.
The drama will explore the impact of Savile's crimes on his victims and the powerlessness many felt when trying to report them. It serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the horrors of the past and having open conversations about abuse.
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