The BBC’s Controversial Documentary on Royal Family Sparks Backlash

A recent documentary by the BBC shedding light on the Royal Family's intricate relationship with the media has sparked outrage among some key figures, including journalist Amanda Plattell.

The two-part deep dive titled “The Princes and the Press” aired its first installment on BBC Two, leaving Plattell feeling deceived by the portrayal of her comments.

According to Plattell, what was initially a two-hour filmed conversation with host Amol Rajan was condensed into less than two minutes of selective quotes, leaving her feeling conned and misled.

Expressing her dismay, Plattell revealed that she had requested to review any potential edits of their conversation that might feature in the second episode, given the six-month gap since the interview.

However, Rajan cited ongoing work on the program as a reason for being unable to share further details, expressing regret for any perceived unfairness.

Plattell criticized the documentary for allegedly favoring Meghan Markle's lawyer, Jenny Affeyer, by allowing her to speak at length without challenge, while neglecting to offer the same opportunity to the Royal Family.

Moreover, she criticized the prominent role given to Omid Scobie, co-author of a biography seen as overly supportive of Meghan and Harry.

In a scathing critique published in the Daily Mail, Plattell labeled the documentary as a “hatchet job” on the palace and the press, accusing it of presenting a biased perspective in favor of Harry and Meghan.

This one-sided portrayal has reportedly incited the palace to consider boycotting future interactions with the BBC.

Plattell expressed disappointment in Rajan for highlighting her critical columns on the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during the episode, despite her history of writing in their favor, suggesting she was used to bolster Meghan's image.

Reflecting on her involvement, Plattell pondered the royals' sentiments about being disparaged by the BBC.

The tensions surrounding the documentary have escalated, with reports emerging of other royal family members contemplating a boycott of the BBC due to its content.

“The Princes and the Press,” scheduled to air on BBC Two, delves into the royal family's complex dynamics with the media, focusing primarily on the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Concerns have been raised by Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, and Prince William, who were denied the opportunity to preview the documentary, fearing potential negative portrayals of Prince William's actions.

The documentary's first episode explores the lead-up to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's 2017 wedding, examining the princes' interactions with the press during this period.

It also delves into the fallout from the phone hacking scandal, highlighting disputes between newspapers and the royal family.

The subsequent episode shifts focus to the tumultuous years between 2018 and 2021, covering significant events such as the birth of Harry and Meghan's son, Archie, their royal tours, and the couple's decision to step back from official royal duties.

Amidst the controversy, critics have raised concerns about the impartiality of BBC's media editor, Amol Rajan, pointing to his past criticisms of the monarchy.

Rajan's previous remarks questioning the concept of an unelected head of state have fueled doubts about his objectivity in presenting the royal family's narrative.

As the debate rages on, the royal family's reaction to the documentary underscores the deep-seated tensions between the monarchy and the media, hinting at broader implications for their future interactions with the press.