BBC Breakfast viewers rage ‘get a grip!’ as they blast show for promoting Harry and Meghan Netflix doc
HARRY and Meghan’s Netflix docuseries was always going to be controversial, but before it had even aired in full viewers were outraged over this morning’s BBC Breakfast coverage of the new show.
Just after 8am hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt introduced the headline item which was the global launch of the Sussexes’ new six-part documentary that launched globally on the streaming platform at that time.
But BBC Breakfast viewers were quick to blast the hierarchy of the news agenda, and complained about the decision to give the series such a level of coverage.
One comment read on Twitter: “Why oh why are #BBCBreakfast headlining the #HarryandMeghan Netflix series? Apparently, we’re going to be treated to a blow by blow account from their Royal reporter.
“I like them both but there are more important issues in the UK right now. #StrikeAction #CostOfLivingCrisis.”
Another agreed: “People freezing. People missing meals. People waiting for ambulances. People lying in hospital corridors. People broken by this heinous government but what is the top story? #HarryandMeghan for God’s sake get a grip. Families argue & are estranged. Life for many.”
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And it piled on with: “Media hell bent on Harry and Meghan this morning when we have more bigger things to worry about. Stop it! Focus on the fraud stories and cost of living crisis driven by the Tories!”
More followed: “Stop giving oxygen to the Harry and Meghan ‘show’.”
After introducing the segment, Naga and Charlie spoke to BBC royal correspondent Sarah Campbell who was watching the show live as soon as it landed on the streaming service.
Netflix wouldn’t permit journalists to access previews of the show ahead of its launch, as is common practice for reviewers and commentators.
Sarah said: “People like journalists will be pouring over every single frame…For members of the public Harry and Meghan have always been a divisive couple. This is going to garner a lot of interest for the Netflix streaming giant.”
At that point in the morning the reporter had only been able to watch the opening few frames and drew reference to the opening sequences that outlined: “Members of the Royal Family declined to comment on the content of this series.”
The first three episodes of Harry & Meghan are available on Netflix, the second instalment of the final three episodes will be available to watch from 15 December