BBC chair apologizes over editing of Trump documentary as president threatens legal action

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) – The chair of the BBC has apologized for what he called an “error of judgement” in how a documentary edited a speech by US President Donald Trump, as Trump threatens legal action against the British broadcaster.

Samir Shah said the BBC’s “DNA and culture” are rooted in impartiality but acknowledged there were “real issues” to address.

The apology comes after criticism that a 2024 documentary appeared to misrepresent comments made by Trump, by editing together two parts of a speech in a way that “did give the impression of a direct call for violent action,” specifically for the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot.

In a letter to lawmakers on parliament’s Culture, Media and Sport Committee, Shah said that “in hindsight, it would’ve been better to act earlier” and that the BBC “should have taken a more formal position on it.”

- Trump threatening legal action

He confirmed that the BBC had received a letter from Trump threatening legal action over the program.

“We have received communication from President Trump and his people, and we are now considering how to reply to him,” Shah said, adding: “I do not know yet if he is suing the BBC — but he’s a litigious fellow, so we should be prepared for all outcomes.”

Trump is known for legally challenging reports he finds disagreeable, including US broadcasters ABC and CBS in recent years. In those cases, the TV networks offered Trump large financial settlements and other changes, drawing controversy.

Shah rejected suggestions that the BBC had “swept the issue under the carpet” but reiterated that lessons had been learned.

The controversy follows the resignations on Sunday night of BBC Director General Tim Davie and News CEO Deborah Turness.

A leaked memo written by Michael Prescott, former independent adviser to the BBC, criticized the documentary’s editing of Trump’s speech.

Shah said it was not the board’s role to determine who should remain in post but admitted he was “upset” by Davie’s decision to step down.

“I did not want to lose Tim Davie, nor did any member of the board,” he said. “My job now is to ensure a smooth transition, and Tim will help with this.”

Shah said he would not resign, adding that his responsibility is to “represent the public and ensure the journalism is impartial.”