The BBC denies its controversial Jimmy Savile drama has been postponed after claiming “bosses pushed for more attention to be paid to victims”.
The BBC has denied that its controversial Jimmy Savile drama The Reckoning has been postponed after reports that the broadcaster’s bosses called for a greater focus on its victims.
The four-part series is expected to air on the BBC in the autumn – despite backlash from victims of the sex offender, who died in 2011 aged 84.
Filming on “The Reckoning,” which chronicles the disgraced former star’s upbringing, early career and numerous child sexual offenses, wrapped in January 2022.
Then on Friday it was reported that the release date had been pushed back, but the BBC confirmed that the series starring Steve Coogan would still air as planned.
This comes after The Sun reported that after watching early versions of the drama, BBC executives called for the drama’s focus to shift to Savile’s victim to prevent viewers “misinterpreting” it as a biopic about the pedophile.
Statement: The BBC has denied that its controversial Jimmy Savile drama The Reckoning has been postponed
Monsters: The four-part series is expected to be shown by the BBC in the autumn – despite backlash from victims of the sex offender, who died in 2011 aged 84
A source previously told the publication: “There has been a lot of speculation about how a program that was first announced three years ago is still not appearing on our screens.”
“The BBC simply said they wanted to take their time and get the final version right. They understand that it is an incredibly delicate balance and have a duty of care to the victims.
“Therefore, they will be seen much more in the drama itself, as well as real victims who will appear throughout the series.”
However, a BBC spokesman said: “The focus of the drama has not shifted.” “We have always said that we work closely with many people whose lives were affected by Savile, including survivors – four of whom were also in the Drama plays a role.”
Savile, who died before his crimes could be revealed, stalked vulnerable children and abused his position to get access to minors.
Last month, the first official still from the new drama was released ahead of its broadcast later this year.
Steve Coogan, 57, has taken on the role of the spoiled presenter and the picture shows him wearing a replica of one of the late TV and radio personality’s colorful tracksuits as he lounges on a chair and smokes a cigar.
His profile is visible as he sits in what appears to be a hotel room, also sporting the disgraced media personality’s unflattering cropped, dyed blonde hair.
Filming: The Reckoning, which traces the disgraced ex-star’s upbringing, early career and numerous child sexual offenses, ended in January 2022 (Jimmy pictured in 2006).
Filming: It was then reported on Friday that the release date had been pushed back, but the BBC has confirmed that the series starring Steve Coogan (pictured) will still air as planned
Shockingly, last month the first official still from the new drama was released ahead of its broadcast later this year
Earlier this year it was reported that executives were nervous about airing the show after it was met with criticism.
A TV insider told The Sun: “It’s been three years since the BBC announced it would make this drama and there has been a strong reaction from victims.”
“Most dramas don’t take that long to edit and air, but they don’t want to get it wrong.”
A BBC spokesman said: “We are currently in post-production for broadcast later this year. “A precise date will be announced in due course.”
The decision to record Savile’s life has been met with criticism from many, but the BBC has said it has worked with his victims and will portray the story “with sensitivity and respect”.