Broadcasting the Rants of a Madman
Because they do not have to rely on advertising, the BBC has the ability to do things differently than the American media. Among the differences is having Peter Horrocks, Head of TV News at the BBC explain the process and thinking behind: Why we showed gunman.
In this case, my immediate reaction would have been to have a panel of experts in law enforcement, mental health, and the media review the material and report on it. Then I would have scheduled the materials to be broadcast at a later date, cynically, the Fall sweeps, to give the families and friends time to grieve. I wouldn’t have done it on the anniversary, as grief counselors would tell you that is another hurdle for those who are grieving. Six months would give professionals time to study the materials and come to reasoned conclusions. I would also make a significant contribution to a victims’ fund, knowing that whatever I did, some people would hate it, and I would need PR cover. It’s called reality, and it is brutal, but you ignore it at your own risk.
