Tuesday, 28 April 2009

Channel 4 in clear over Big Brother bullying complaints

Ofcom says broadcaster dealt appropriately with housemates

Davina McCall presents Big Brother

Channel 4 has been cleared by Ofcom over last year's Big Brother bullying row.

The watchdog received 4,724 complaints during the last series of the reality show.

Ofcom insists Channel 4 appropriately ‘issued warnings and reprimands’ to housemates.

But they upheld complaints against the station for accidentally broadcasting swearing before the watershed.

Meanwhile, the BBC has been cleared over an error with the judges’ scoring on Strictly Come Dancing last year.

The vote was suspended and viewers were offered a refund after it emerged the public couldn't help Tom Chambers avoid a dance-off in the semi-final, even if he got the most support.

‘Ofcom was satisfied that appropriate steps were taken by the BBC and the disadvantage to viewers minimised,’ reads a statement.

‘In Ofcom's view the BBC had been open and transparent with viewers about the mistake it made and the solution adopted.’

SEE PICTURES Strictly Come Dancing 2008 line-up unveiled>>

SEE PICTURES All the best moments from Strictly Come Dancing 2008>>

SEE PICTURES Celebrity Big Brother 2009 - best bits>>