Christians feel unfairly represented by BBC

Viewers believe the BBC treats Christianity unfairly in comparison to other religions, the broadcaster’s own research has found.

According to a survey conducted by the BBC, viewers say that the corporation has a politically “left-wing" or “liberal bias” and that more minority religions are better represented than Christianity.

“In terms of religion, there were many who perceived the BBC to be anti-Christian and as such misrepresenting Christianity,” the BBC report states.

The report, based on a poll of 4,500 people and including BBC staff, is part of the broadcaster’s “Diversity Strategy”, a service to meet BBC’s responsibility to both the Royal Charter and the Equality Act 2010.

It notes from the results: “Christians are specifically mentioned as being badly treated, with a suggestion that more minority religions are better represented despite Christianity being the most widely observed religion within Britain.”

Some viewers said that Christians were treated with “derogatory stereotypes” which ended up portraying them as “weak” or “bigoted”.

One respondent said, “As a Christian I find that the BBC's representation of Christianity is mainly inaccurate, portraying incorrect, often derogatory stereotypes.”

Another person agreed and added, “Seldom do we find a Christian portrayed in drama, and when we do, it is usually a 'weak' person or a ‘bigot'.”

In 2005, the BBC drew wide complaints from Christian groups when it aired “Jerry Springer: The Opera”, a British musical based on the popular show “The Jerry Springer Show”, which is known for its irreverent treatment of Judeo-Christian themes. It received the most complaints in television history.

In response to the report’s conclusion, a BBC spokesman said, “We have strict editorial guidelines on impartiality, including religious perspectives, and Christian programming forms the majority and the cornerstone of our religion and ethical output.”