The BBC has come under heavy scrutiny from viewers, as some were unhappy with its coverage of Liam Payne’s funeral.
During Breakfast on Saturday morning (November 23), presenters and Sarah Campbell handed the reins over to presenter Samira Ahmed for the latest instalment of Newswatch.
The popular segment, which allows viewers to share their opinions on News’s reporting of events, addressed a number of topics on Saturday morning, including Victoria Derbyshire grilling .
But another concern was how News dealt with One Direction singer Liam’s funeral proceedings and how it appeared to breach the family’s privacy.
During the report that was shown earlier this week, music correspondent Mark Savage stood outside the church as he explained to viewers which guests had already arrived while adding that the family had told the “to keep the location private”.
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BBC News came under fire from viewers (Image: BBC)
However some viewers at home noticed that the failed to do this. With the location Buckinghamshire shown on screen, the report also included images of people making their way inside the church with a visible sign of the church that could be seen in the background.
A disappointed spectator wrote to Newswatch addressing Mark’s report. She said: “He clearly stated that the location, at the request of the family, was to remain a secret, yet then cuts to an image of former bandmates arriving in front of the church sign with the name of the church on it.”
Another viewer called into the show with a similar perspective, stating that it wouldn’t be hard to find the location of the church. She ended her stance by fuming, “I don’t think you’re doing what you say you are doing”.
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The news report received backlash from viewers (Image: BBC)
Meanwhile, another viewer complained that the overall coverage of the funeral, which was meant to be private, was too intrusive.
In response to the backlash, News shared a statement which presenter Samira read out. It stated: “Liam’s sudden death was a significant news story with large audience interest. We liaised closely with the family to ensure our coverage was sensitive and respected their wishes.”
Following the news of Liam’s passing, his family expressed their grief, stating: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul.”
Liam, who was 31 years old at the time of his passing, rose to fame as part of the pop boy band One Direction, who were formed on ITV’s The X Factor. The star died last month after falling from a hotel balcony in the capital, Buenos Aires.
Breakfast airs daily from 10am on One.