Bashir argues ‘professional jealousy’ fueled accusations over his methods to secure the famous 1995 interview
Martin Bashir Defends Himself Against Allegations in Diana Interview Scandal
Bashir argues ‘professional jealousy’ fueled accusations over his methods to secure the famous 1995 interview
Category: News
Martin Bashir, the journalist at the centre of the controversial 1995 Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales, has claimed that “professional jealousy” and his working-class background were key factors behind the allegations that he used deceitful tactics to secure the interview. In a 2020 email, Bashir insisted that the forged documents—which were integral to the scandal—did not influence the interview’s outcome. He argued that the criticism was rooted in resentment over his background, suggesting that had a more “dynastic” journalist like the Dimblebys conducted the interview, there would have been less controversy.
This email, which was made public after a Freedom of Information request, comes amid a long-running investigation into the affair. Bashir’s conduct in securing the 1995 interview was scrutinised following Lord Dyson’s 2021 report, which found that Bashir had breached BBC guidelines by using fake bank statements to gain access to Diana through her brother, Earl Spencer. The BBC later issued an apology and vowed to never air the interview again.
Despite the scandal, Bashir received praise from some of his BBC colleagues at the time of the interview, with Lord Hall of Birkenhead lauding him for his “excellent judgment” and “sensitivity.” However, the revelations have raised significant questions about the BBC’s role in the affair. The broadcaster has since committed to greater transparency, including commissioning the independent inquiry led by Lord Dyson to uncover the full details of Bashir’s actions.
