The Everard Drama’s Uncomfortable Truths: A Cautionary Tale for Content Creators

Ben Frow, chief content officer at Channel 5, recently sparked debate in the industry by stating he wouldn’t have commissioned a drama about Sarah Everard’s murder. His decision has been met with praise from some who appreciate his sensitivity and criticism from others questioning his motivations.

Frow’s approach to commissioning content is guided by three straightforward questions: “Would I watch it?”, “Is it more trouble than it’s worth?”, and “Why am I doing it?” While these touchstones demonstrate a consideration for both artistic merit and practicality, they also raise important questions about the responsibility that comes with telling true stories.

The BBC’s decision to commission Jeff Pope to write a drama about the investigation into Everard’s murder has been criticized, particularly given Pope’s gender. The choice of screenwriter can significantly impact how a story is told and perceived by audiences. In this case, selecting a male writer to tackle a narrative deeply personal to women across the country has sparked concerns about representation and sensitivity.

Frow’s track record on handling sensitive topics is more nuanced than his decision not to commission the Everard drama might suggest. He has commissioned dramas about high-profile cases like the Madeleine McCann disappearance and Huw Edwards’ conviction for downloading images of child sexual abuse. These decisions highlight the complexities involved in balancing artistic freedom with contributor welfare.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness within the industry about the importance of prioritizing contributor welfare and privacy. Frow’s comments on this topic are telling: “We want to be able to tell their story, and we want to do it in a responsible way, and not in a sneery, jeery, horrible way.” This emphasis on responsible storytelling is a welcome shift, but it also raises questions about the limits of artistic expression.

The lawsuit filed by Blackbox Media against Channel 5 over a shelved drama series highlights the tensions that can arise when contributor welfare and artistic vision collide. Frow’s statement on this matter underscores the importance of listening to contributors and being willing to adapt or abandon projects if necessary.

In an industry where the line between artistic expression and exploitation is often blurred, Frow’s decision not to commission a drama about Sarah Everard serves as a cautionary tale. It reminds us that even with the best of intentions, our stories can have unintended consequences. As content creators, we must be mindful of the impact our work has on those who contribute to it.

Frow’s approach may seem paternalistic or overly cautious to some, but in an era where the boundaries between fact and fiction are increasingly blurred, his emphasis on responsible storytelling is a timely reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with telling true stories.