Presenter's Reaction
A BBC presenter has vowed he will ‘not stay silent’ after his long-running show was axed. Stephen Sackur of HARDtalk expressed his shock and disappointment at the decision to end the programme after 25 years on air.
End of an Era
The investigative journalism show HARDtalk is being axed as part of a 130-person job cut programme in the BBC's news division. The decision has sparked a wave of emotions, with host Stephen Sackur calling it a "mistake" and expressing his dismay.
What's Next for the Host?
Stephen Sackur, who has been the face of HARDtalk, shared his thoughts on the show coming to an end and the BBC's decision to acquire US series Suits. Despite the network's move, Stephen admitted he had never watched the popular legal drama starring Meghan Markle.
Legacy of HARDtalk
HARDtalk first launched in 1997 with Tim Sebastian as the original presenter. Over the years, the show has featured a wide range of guests, from political leaders to entertainers. The programme is set to conclude its run in March 2025.
Memorable Moments
Throughout HARDtalk's history, guests like Sir Richard Attenborough, Robin Williams, and Mia Khalifa have graced the show with their presence. The programme has been known for holding politicians and powerbrokers accountable.
Behind the Scenes
In an internal email, news boss Deborah Turness explained that ending HARDtalk is part of the BBC's efforts to meet savings and reinvestment targets. The decision has left fans and the host saddened by the loss of a platform that challenged the world's leaders.
Remembering Suits
As HARDtalk says goodbye, another show, Suits, takes its place in the BBC's lineup. The US legal drama, which aired from 2011 to 2019, followed the story of Mike Ross, a lawyer with a secret. Meghan Markle portrayed Rachel Zane in the series.
