Young women in TV are ‘still at risk from predators’, broadcasting chief warns

Dorothy Byrne, Channel 4’s former head of news and current affairs, has warned that young women in television remain vulnerable to abuse because powerful talent can influence whether junior staff get future work. She said the conviction of Russell Brand could mark a turning point, with some men who have behaved badly now feeling frightened.

The BBC apologised again after reviewing eight allegations concerning Brand’s time there from 2006 to 2008, but faced criticism for noting he also worked for other broadcasters. A BBC review found junior staff felt there was little point in complaining; Channel 4’s 2024 inquiry found one complaint was not escalated, while Banijay UK found informal complaints had not been passed on. A 2023 investigation by Channel 4 and the Times titles prompted women to come forward.