BBC Breakfast: 'Tensions rife' between Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt as morning show faces 'bullying probe'
BBC Breakfast has reportedly been thrown into chaos amid claims of “bullying” behind the scenes.
The BBC’s flagship morning programme has been hit by claims of an “aggressive” atmosphere, with “unhappy” staff working on the programme reportedly making a formal complaint against editor Richard Frediani, according to The Sun.
A source told the newspaper: “To the viewer BBC Breakfast is a warm, gentle programme, one that is flourishing in the ratings. But beyond the cosy red sofa it is a very different picture. Several people — crew, production and even presenters — have been very unhappy.”
Tensions between presenter Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty have been described as “rife” and some staff reportedly believe that Frediani’s recent promotion to editor has “gone to his head”, with the source describing his attitude as “tyrannical” and “aggressive”.
They added: “Meanwhile, Naga, who is passionate about speaking up if she believes something is wrong, has spoken to people who are unhappy. Formal complaints have been lodged, so the BBC has to be seen to act. The probe has really divided the newsroom.”
While some staffers have lodged formal complaints, others reportedly fall on the other side of the argument, stating that Frediani is doing his job as expected. Last year, Frediani was at the centre of a complaint, which the BBC upheld, after he allegedly physically shook a female member of staff.
A spokesperson for the BBC said: “We do not comment on individual HR issues.”