Following the news of the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton’s health diagnosis on March 22, the BBC came under for its subsequent reporting of the story.
Kensington Palace issued a video following weeks of speculation and warped conspiracy theories online to address Kate’s whereabouts after planned abdominal surgery.
In said video, Kate revealed tests following the surgery “found cancer had been present” but insisted “I am well”.
She added: “(I’m) getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal. In my mind, body and spirits.”
Inevitably, the royal’s health news dominated the news cycle across the globe, prompting a number of apologies from prominent talks how hosts who participated in the ill-tasted speculation about her whereabouts.
After reporting on the aforementioned video shared by Kate, the BBC has confirmed it “received complaints from people who feel our coverage of the Princess of Wales’ cancer diagnosis was excessive and insensitive”.
The BBC has responded to complaints of its Kate Middleton coverage
GETTY/BBC
But the BBC stood firm behind its coverage, stating in its response: “We broadcast in full the highly personal video message from the Princess of Wales, in which she spoke directly to the public about her cancer diagnosis.
“Our coverage reflected the significance of this story and the outpouring of support for the princess from around the globe. We explained to our audience what was known about Catherine’s condition, but did not speculate on details that had not been made public.
“Our reporting made clear that this is a difficult time for the princess and the rest of the Royal Family; we have been mindful at all times to approach our coverage with sensitivity.
“As part of our analysis, we examined the intense speculation there had been in the preceding weeks about the princess’s health.”
Kate Middleton announced her health diagnosis last month
BBC STUDIOS
The lengthy ruling went on: “We also reported on Catherine’s request for privacy and detailed the statement from Kensington Palace regarding the princess having the right to privacy in relation to her medical issues.
“We always give careful consideration to the editorial decisions we make. While we have a responsibility to report on stories that are of interest to our audience, we appreciate that not everyone would have approved of the approach we took.”
It’s not the first time the Beeb has faced complaints about its handling of royal stories in recent months either.
The BBC delivered a similar defence after facing complaints its coverage of the Mother’s Day photo editing saga involving the royals was “excessive and sensationalist”.
The BBC covered the Kate Middleton story across its platforms
GETTY
Kate and husband Prince William have stayed out of the spotlight since the video was released along with their three children: George, Charlotte and Louis.
But while the family spends time out of the public eye, a close friend has said how the three children are helping their mother during her recovery.
“Having fun together when they can is very important,” an insider reportedly told People.
They added regarding George, Charlotte and Louis: “The children are at the centre of their world.”
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