Before the controversy surrounding her role on BBC Breakfast bubbled back into the spotlight, Naga Munchetty was candid about how much she despises bullying—especially when she witnessed it as a child.
Speaking on the Walking The Dog With Emily Dean podcast, she recalled how much it bothered her to see classmates being mistreated and how she made a conscious effort to befriend everyone.
“I was no angel,” she admitted, “but I hated seeing people bullied.”
From Schoolyard Solidarity to Workplace Confrontations
Naga, now 50 and a seasoned presenter on both TV and radio, also shared how that same mindset follows her into her professional life.
On the podcast, she explained that she doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations at work—especially when someone upsets her.
Her belief in calling things out directly, however, has drawn scrutiny, as she finds herself at the center of BBC’s latest workplace conduct investigation.
BBC Probes Bullying Claims and Off-Air Remarks
The timing couldn’t be more sensitive.
Allegations have recently resurfaced that Naga bullied a junior female colleague while working on BBC Breakfast last year. And it doesn’t stop there.
The Sun reports that in a separate 2022 incident, Naga allegedly made an off-air comment using a crude slang term for a sex act during a break at BBC Radio 5 Live—a moment that reportedly left colleagues stunned and prompted a warning from her bosses.
BBC Breakfast Rocked by Internal Toxicity Row
The controversy surrounding Naga is just one part of a broader storm at BBC Breakfast.
The show’s editor, Richard Frediani, has taken extended leave following an internal review into allegations of bullying and misconduct.
Reports suggest that BBC executives are dealing with a wave of discomfort among staff, with some team members describing an increasingly tense environment under Frediani’s leadership.
Editor Accused of Intimidating Behavior
It has also been claimed that Frediani, a former Head of ITV News, once physically intimidated a female editor—allegedly grabbing and “shaking” her during a dispute.
While Frediani was originally scheduled to take time off for a holiday, he has now agreed to extend that break amid the intensifying investigation.
BBC Holds Crisis Talks as Allegations Grow
In response to the allegations, BBC bosses have reportedly been holding internal meetings to manage the crisis and map out the next steps.
An internal email from John McAndrew, the Director of Live and Daily News, thanked staff for remaining positive during what he called a “stressful time.”
The memo also confirmed Frediani’s decision to continue his leave of absence.
Staff Stand Divided Amid Leadership Turmoil
Despite the serious nature of the claims, some colleagues are standing by Frediani.
According to sources, he has received a wave of private support from team members who describe him as a “brilliant boss.”
One insider added that he’s devastated by the allegations and has taken the time off to reflect.
BBC Responds to Growing Workplace Concerns
The BBC released a statement reaffirming its commitment to workplace safety and respect:
“While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values.”
They added that staff are encouraged to come forward with any concerns, promising that such issues will be addressed through “robust processes.”
No Comment Yet from Munchetty’s Team
As of now, Naga Munchetty’s representatives and the BBC have been approached for further comment but haven’t responded publicly.
While the outcome of these allegations is yet to unfold, one thing is clear—the BBC is under mounting pressure to rebuild trust behind the scenes and restore morale among its Breakfast team.