Is Amol Rajan Suspended From BBC? Who is Amol Rajan?
by Harini | Updated Jul 10, 2023
Is Amol Rajan Suspended From BBC?
Amol Rajan, a BBC anchor has not been suspended from BBC, but he was in the issue that he has found himself in hot water after a recent on-air incident. During a discussion about marine algae, English naturalist Chris Packham corrected Rajan for using the term "seaweed," which Packham found offensive. He requested that Rajan use the more appropriate term "marine algae" instead, emphasizing that the word "weed" undermines its significance. Rajan promptly interrupted to express his apologies.
The incident occurred when Rajan reported on the issue of an overwhelming amount of marine algae affecting the picturesque coastal town of Weymouth, Dorset. He described the situation as a "mass of noisome seaweed causing a huge stink" and mentioned bathers having to navigate through a "carpet of magnetic kelp."
One of the guests on the show, who frequently visits Weymouth Beach, shared her experience of attempting to swim through the algae but being put off by the unpleasant smell. As a result, she chose to drive to another beach located 40 miles away.
Packham, the conservationist, responded by urging those complaining about the stench to "get a grip" and redirect their attention to the vital role that marine algae play in the ecosystem. He highlighted its function as an oxygen producer, a breeding ground for fish, and a crucial component of the oceanic food chain along the UK coast. Packham attributed the recent surge in marine algae to unseasonal winds, assuring that it is a temporary issue.
While chastising Rajan for using the offensive term, Packham himself referred to the marine algae as seaweed when encouraging beachgoers to embrace its presence. He suggested that people should bring their children to the beach and enjoy the experience of interacting with the seaweed piles. He emphasized the global significance of this material, urging people to appreciate it. Interestingly, Rajan did not correct Packham for his use of the term "seaweed" after the incident.
Amol Rajan Career
Amol Rajan's career has encompassed various roles and contributions in the media industry. In 2006-2007, he served as the secondary presenter on The Wright Stuff, a daytime talk show on the Five network. During that time, Rajan also worked as a researcher for the program.
In August 2007, Rajan joined The Independent newspaper, where he held several positions over the following years. He worked as a news reporter, sports correspondent, columnist, and comment editor, and eventually became the editor of Independent Voices.
Additionally, he wrote a Monday column for the London Evening Standard and provided restaurant criticism for The Independent on Sunday. Rajan also contributed to The Salisbury Review, a publication known for its insightful content on politics, history, and culture. While he acknowledged occasional disagreements with the publication's editorial stance, Rajan appreciated its thought-provoking nature.
In 2013, at the age of 29, Rajan made history as the first non-white editor of a national newspaper in over a century when he was appointed as the editor of The Independent. Chris Blackhurst, his predecessor, became Group Content Director. When The Independent decided to shift to a digital-only format in February 2016, with the print edition's imminent closure, Rajan remained with the company to aid in the transition.
Prior to his role as editor, Rajan served as the media advisor to Evgeny Lebedev, son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB economic attaché. During a radio broadcast in 2019, journalist Peter Oborne accused Rajan of engaging in "client" and "crony" journalism.
Rajan's tenure as editor-at-large for The Independent website ended when he was appointed as the BBC's first Media Editor in November 2016. He assumed his new position on December 12, 2016.
Rajan has also hosted The Big Debate on the BBC Asian Network. Since 2017, he has provided holiday cover for various presenters on BBC Radio 2, such as Simon Mayo, Jeremy Vine, and Zoe Ball. Rajan has occasionally presented The One Show and served as the host of The Media Show on BBC Radio 4 from May 2017, following Steve Hewlett's tenure. However, he stepped down from that role upon joining the presenting team of the Today program on BBC Radio 4 in 2021.
In August 2022, it was announced that Rajan would take over from Jeremy Paxman as the host of the University Challenge for the 53rd series, starting from July 17, 2023. Additionally, in June 2023, he conducted an interview with former TV presenter Phillip Schofield for the BBC, marking Schofield's first TV appearance since his resignation from ITV.
Rajan has expressed Republican views and made critical comments about the royal family in the past. He referred to the royal family as "absurd" and labeled the media as a "propaganda outlet" for the monarchy.
In 2021, he publicly apologized for derogatory remarks made in a 2012 article about Prince Philip and Prince Charles, as well as an open letter to Prince William and Catherine during their first pregnancy. In November 2021, Rajan presented a two-part documentary on the BBC called The Princes and the Press, exploring the relationship between the royal family and the media. He also narrated the BBC podcast Harry, Meghan and the Media, released in January 2022
Amol Rajan Personal Life
In addition to his professional endeavors, Amol Rajan has a keen interest in cricket and actively participates in the sport. He is a member of the Authors XI cricket team, showcasing his passion for the game.
Rajan's enthusiasm for cricket translated into his first book, titled "Twirlymen: The Unlikely History of Cricket's Greatest Spin Bowlers." Published by Random House in 2011, the book delves into the fascinating stories behind some of the sport's most exceptional spin bowlers.
Outside of his cricketing pursuits, Rajan's personal life includes his marriage to academic Charlotte Faircloth. The couple tied the knot in September 2013 in Cambridge, UK. Rajan and Faircloth currently reside in London, where they are raising a family together. They are proud parents to three children.
Who Is Amol Rajan?
Amol Rajan is a renowned British journalist, broadcaster, and writer of Indian origin. Born on July 4, 1983, he has held various significant positions throughout his career. From December 2016 until January 2023, Rajan served as the media editor of BBC News, playing a crucial role in shaping the news coverage of the organization. In addition, he has been a presenter on the Today program aired on BBC Radio 4 since 2021, contributing his insights and expertise to the program.
Rajan's notable achievements extend beyond his work at the BBC. He assumed the role of editor at The Independent newspaper in June 2013, where he demonstrated his editorial skills and journalistic prowess. When The Independent made the decision to discontinue its print edition in February 2016 and transition to an exclusively online platform, Rajan was retained as "editor-at-large," allowing him to continue contributing to the publication.
Furthermore, Rajan's influence in the field of broadcasting will soon expand even further. Starting on July 17, 2023, he is set to take over as the host of University Challenge, a popular quiz show, succeeding Jeremy Paxman. This new role will undoubtedly showcase Rajan's expertise in engaging and challenging intellectual discourse.
With his diverse experiences and notable contributions to the media industry, Amol Rajan has established himself as a prominent figure in British journalism and broadcasting.
BBC Overview
The BBC, also known as the British Broadcasting Corporation, is a well-known public service broadcaster headquartered in London, England. With a rich history, it holds the distinction of being the world's oldest national broadcaster and is also the largest broadcaster globally in terms of its workforce, which consists of over 21,000 employees. The majority of these employees, approximately 17,900, work in public-sector broadcasting.
Operating under a royal charter and an agreement with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, the BBC is funded primarily through an annual television license fee. This fee is mandatory for all households, companies, and organizations in the United Kingdom that use equipment to receive or record live television broadcasts or access content through the BBC's iPlayer service.
The British Government determines the television license fee, which is approved by Parliament. The revenue generated from this fee is used to finance the BBC's radio, television, and online services across the nations and regions of the UK. Since April 1, 2014, the BBC has also been responsible for funding the BBC World Service, originally established as the BBC Empire Service in 1932. The BBC World Service offers comprehensive TV, radio, and online services in 28 languages, with a particular focus on Arabic and Persian.
A notable portion of the BBC's income is derived from its commercial subsidiary, BBC Studios, which was previously known as BBC Worldwide. BBC Studios is involved in the international distribution of BBC programs and services. It also oversees the operations of BBC World News, the BBC's 24-hour English-language news service, and BBC.com, which is managed by BBC Global News Ltd.
In recognition of its global achievements, the BBC was honored with the Queen's Award for Enterprise in 2009. Since its establishment in 1922, the BBC has played a significant role in shaping British society and culture. It is often informally referred to as the Beeb or Auntie, or a combination of both (Auntie Beeb).
Is Amol Rajan Suspended From BBC FAQ
No, Amol Rajan is not being suspended from the BBC. He found himself in hot water after a recent on-air incident but has not faced suspension.
During a discussion about marine algae, Rajan used the term "seaweed" which was considered offensive by English naturalist Chris Packham. Packham requested that Rajan use the more appropriate term "marine algae" instead.
Amol Rajan has held various roles in the media industry. He has been a journalist, broadcaster, and writer. He served as the media editor of BBC News, worked at The Independent newspaper, and has been a presenter on BBC Radio 4's Today program.
Amol Rajan's first book, titled "Twirlymen: The Unlikely History of Cricket's Greatest Spin Bowlers," explores the stories behind some of cricket's exceptional spin bowlers. It was published in 2011.
Amol Rajan is married to academic Charlotte Faircloth since 2013. They have three children together and currently reside in London.