July 10th 2024.
Next on the agenda is the controversy surrounding a new comedy show on ITV. The Police Federation has expressed their disapproval of the show's title, which revolves around a fictional police training college. The show, titled Piglets, follows a group of aspiring police officers as they undergo rigorous training to become top-notch cops. The creators of the show, known for their previous work on Smack The Pony and Green Wing, have cast Sarah Parish and Mark Heap as the lead roles of Superintendents Julie Spry and Bob Weekes, who are responsible for shaping the future of these young trainees.
Despite its star-studded cast and promising storyline, the show has already sparked outrage within the police community. The Police Federation has labeled the use of the word "Piglets" as "disgusting" and "highly offensive." Tiffany Lynch, the Acting National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, expressed her disappointment, saying, "The choice of language for the title of this TV program is absolutely appalling. It is disrespectful to the hardworking police officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect the public. The fact that this has been approved by an organization that represents those who rely on the police for support and assistance is mind-boggling."
Lynch also pointed out that the timing of the show could not be worse, considering the current climate of increased threats and violence against police officers. She stated, "The name of this show only adds fuel to the fire and puts our officers at even more risk. It is reckless to promote negativity and misinformation about a public service that is already facing immense pressure." Mukund Krishna, the CEO of the Police Federation of England and Wales, also joined in on the criticism, announcing that they will be writing to Ofcom and ITV to demand a change in the show's title.
The backlash has not been limited to just the police community. Viewers have also expressed their outrage on social media, with many calling out the show's title as "disgraceful" and "distasteful." One user even went as far as saying, "I don't mind a comedy, but the name is highly offensive to anyone who has served or is currently serving as a police officer." Another user commented, "@ITVX's new show is disrespectful and offensive. It's a shame that they think this type of content is acceptable."
In response to the backlash, an ITV spokesperson defended the show, stating that the title "Piglets" was meant to be a playful and endearing nod to the young and innocent nature of the trainees. However, the Agency has reached out to ITV for further comment on the matter.
Piglets is set to premiere on July 20 on ITV1 and ITVX. The show's controversial title has already sparked a heated debate, and it remains to be seen whether the creators will address the backlash and make any changes. Have a story to share? Get in touch with our entertainment team by emailing us or calling 020 3615 2145. We would love to hear from you!
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