BBC Suspends Presenter Who Paid £35,000 For Explicit Images To Teenager After Complaint By Family In May

The BBC announced on Sunday (9 July) that it has suspended a presenter and contacted the authorities following allegations that the presenter had paid a teenager a significant sum of money in exchange for sexually explicit photos.

UK culture minister Lucy Frazer expressed her concern about the allegations and stated that she had discussed the matter with BBC Director General Tim Davie, who assured her that the BBC is conducting a swift and sensitive investigation.

The Sun initially reported the claims, citing the mother of the young person involved, who alleged that an unnamed BBC presenter had paid her child over £35,000 ($45,000) for explicit images over a period of three years. It is also alleged that the presenter continued to appear on air for a month after the family made a complaint to the BBC in May.

The BBC confirmed that it became aware of a complaint in May and received new allegations of a different nature on Thursday. In addition to conducting their own inquiries, the BBC has also reached out to external authorities, following their protocols. A male staff member has been suspended, and the BBC is working diligently to establish the facts and determine appropriate next steps.

The London Metropolitan Police confirmed that the BBC has contacted them regarding the matter but no formal referral or allegation has been made. Further information is required before deciding on any further action.

The BBC emphasized that it takes all allegations seriously and has robust internal processes in place to address such claims proactively. BBC Director General Tim Davie condemned the unfounded rumors circulating on the internet about their presenting talent in an internal email to staff.