July 10th 2023.
The BBC has recently been in the spotlight after an unnamed male presenter was suspended following allegations that he paid a teenager tens of thousands of pounds for explicit photos. The individual was accused of paying the 17-year-old more than £35,000 for the images. The BBC has confirmed it is in touch with the police and will be meeting with the Metropolitan Police later today to discuss the matter.
In light of the speculation and rumors surrounding the identity of the presenter, a number of top BBC presenters have taken to social media to deny any involvement.
Rylan Clark, who has worked for the BBC since 2018, wrote on Twitter, ‘Not sure why my name’s floating about but re that story in The Sun- that ain’t me babe. I’m currently filming a show in Italy for the BBC, so take my name out ya mouths.’ Jeremy Vine, who has presented for BBC2 on Points of View, also made a statement saying, ‘This is seriously defamatory of me. I have screenshotted it and the retweets and passed it to a lawyer. There is no truth WHATSOEVER in what you are saying.’
Match of the Day host Gary Lineker also expressed his denial of any involvement, saying on Twitter, ‘Hate to disappoint the haters but it’s not me.’ BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Nihal Arthanayake also took to twitter to clarify that he is off air due to Wimbledon and will be back on air on July 17th.
Broadcaster and journalist Nicky Campbell shared a screenshot on Twitter with the Metropolitan Police logo and the words: ‘Thank you for contacting the Metropolitan Police Service to report your crime.’ He added, ‘I think it’s important to take a stand. There’s just too many of these people on social media. Thanks for your support friends.’
The BBC has said it had been investigating the complaint since May when it was first made aware, and that new allegations of a ‘different nature’ were brought to its attention on Thursday. As the investigation continues, many are calling for the BBC to be investigated over its handling of the allegations.
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