The US television network NBC was branded an embarrassment yesterday for its coverage of the Paralympics as athletes, sports chiefs and disability campaigners called for better recognition by international broadcasters of the world’s second largest sports event.
Fierce reaction to the widespread blackout beyond Britain of the Opening Ceremony on Wednesday night came after a record number of people tuned in to watch the critically acclaimed event live on Channel 4.
The host broadcaster reported a peak audience of 11.2 million viewers, its biggest for more than ten years.
Conversely, NBC will wait until September 16 before screening its 90-minute special on the Paralympics, including edited highlights of the show.
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Non-story. If NBC wants to not cover the ceremony live and gain any financial benefit or take any risk, that’s a business decision.
I agree with you, VW, but why do I think that if a conservative media outlet, such as Fox, had decided not to cover the ceremony, the rest of the press and a number of left-wing politicians would be screaming “prejudice!’ and “bigotry!”
OK, it’s a business decision, but why would you bid on the contract — and tie up the contract — to provide coverage of the events and then do a crappy job? Do a good job or else stand aside and let someone else provide the services.