The Media Show Lisa Nandy on saving local news and the future of the BBC, reporting from inside Iran & behind the scenes at the Oscars
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Mar 18, 2026 
Lisa Nandy, UK Culture Secretary focused on media policy; Frederik Pleitgen, CNN international correspondent experienced in conflict reporting; Tom Brook, veteran BBC film journalist with Oscars expertise. They discuss plans to support local news and a permanent BBC charter. Frederik shares reporting from inside Iran under tight restrictions. Tom reflects on the Oscars, declining TV audiences and streaming’s impact on film coverage.
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Director General Role Becomes A Flashpoint
- Nandy reflected that the BBC director-general role is intensely pressured and can take a personal toll, referencing Tim Davie's resignation week.
- She said Tim Davie's resignation was personal and that senior roles become the flashpoint for wider criticism.
Repeat Editorial Failures Need Senior Editorial Expertise
- Nandy separates recurring BBC problems into workplace culture and editorial standards, urging more high-level editorial experience at the top.
- She emphasised frustration at repeat editorial failures and the need for faster fixes.
Expedited Visa And Overland Entry Into Iran
- Frederik Pleitgen described expediting visas via Iran's culture and foreign ministries and overland entry through Armenia to reach Tehran during the war.
- He recounted a 14-hour drive into Tehran and seeing plumes of smoke from strikes en route.