BBC reacts to complaints Kate Middleton’s cancer coverage was ‘excessive and insensitive’
Ever since Kate Middleton underwent an abdominal surgery in January, she has mainly kept a low profile, leading the world to wonder where she went.
The Duchess of Cambridge, 42, finally put rumors to bed about her whereabouts when she announced she has cancer in a video statement last month.
The BBC has now addressed complaints that they covered her health battle an “excessive and insensitive” amount, per Deadline.
The British Broadcasting Cooperation said that while they know that “not everyone would have approved of the approach we took” to relaying the news of Middleton’s cancer, the coverage “reflected the significance of this story and the outpouring of support for the princess from around the globe.”
“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,” the BBC said.
The company continued: “As part of our analysis, we examined the intense speculation there had been in the preceding weeks about the princess’s health. 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,” the BBC added. “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.”
The Princess of Wales opened up about her illness on March 22, saying that she is now in the early stages of undergoing “a course of preventative chemotherapy” in order to heal.
She then thanked her family for their love and support as she recovers, also mentioning those who are also going through cancer.
According to a royal expert, it “took a lot” for Middleton to get over her “inherently shy” personality and tell the public about her sickness in a personalized video.
Biographer Sally Bedell Smith told People that the mother of three came across as “sincere, dignified, poised and she was forthright” in her tone.
“There was not a trace of self-pity. She projected honesty. It was the right balance,” the “Charles: The Misunderstood Prince” author added.
