The BBC confirmed on Nov. 9 that Director-General Tim Davie and CEO of News Deborah Turness have resigned.
The head of the BBC and its top news executive resigned on Nov 9 after the broadcaster was accused of misleading viewers by editing President Donald Trump’s speech on Jan. 6, 2021.
The BBC confirmed it was cutting ties with Director-General Tim Davie and CEO of News Deborah Turness in a series of statements on Nov. 9.
“I wanted to let you know that I have decided to leave the BBC after 20 years,” Davie wrote in a letter to staff members on Nov. 9.
“This is entirely my decision, and I remain very thankful to the Chair and Board for their unswerving and unanimous support throughout my entire tenure, including during recent days.”
Davie, who worked at the BBC for 20 years, did not announce when he would leave his post but said in a statement that he will help bring in a successor.
“In these increasingly polarised times, the BBC is of unique value and speaks to the very best of us. It helps make the UK a special place; overwhelmingly kind, tolerant and curious. Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable,” Davie said.
“While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision. Overall the BBC is delivering well, but there have been some mistakes made and as Director-General I have to take ultimate responsibility.”
BBC Chairman Samir Shah said Davie has been an “outstanding Director-General” for the past five years.
Turness commented on the scandal in her resignation letter sent to staff on Nov. 9.
“The ongoing controversy around the Panorama on President Trump has reached a stage where it is causing damage to the BBC—an institution that I love,” Turness wrote.
“As the CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, the buck stops with me—and I took the decision to offer my resignation to the Director-General last night.”
“Panorama” is the BBC’s flagship news program.
By Jacki Thrapp
