Official BBC statements or press releases

Jimmy Savile, BBC Icon, Allegedly Raped Over 400 Children Over 4 Decades; 200 Victims and 2016 Documentary Criticized

Jan 5, 2025, 12:18 PM

Jimmy Savile, a former BBC personality, has been identified as one of the UK's most notorious sex offenders, with allegations of raping over 400 children during his career. Investigations revealed that Savile's abuse spanned four decades, involving more than 200 victims, and occurred in various locations including BBC studios and hospitals. Despite these revelations, the BBC has faced criticism for allegedly protecting Savile and for its handling of child abuse allegations in general. In one instance, a 2016 documentary aired by the BBC was criticized for portraying victims of Syrian gang members accused of child rape as 'sexually experienced liars,' while the perpetrators were later convicted. The ongoing scrutiny has raised questions about the BBC's responsibility in addressing historical abuse cases and its treatment of victims.