Diana Death Pictures on Channel 4
Channel 4, a UK commerical television channel, is once again under fire over a programme it intends to screen on June 6.
Royal Anecdotes’ response to Diana death pictures
The item is a documentary, Diana: The Witnesses In The Tunnel, which contains graphic images of the crash that killed Diana, Princess of Wales. Despite protests from a Conservative party spokesman, and pleas from Prince William and Prince Harry, the broadcaster has refused, so far, to pull the film from its schedules.
Last year the Princes took the unusual step of issuing an emotional statement expressing their disgust after an Italian magazine printed a paparazzi photograph of their mother’s death. The documentary is said to include images taken by French photographers immediately after Diana’s fatal car crash in Paris in August 1997, including one picture of Diana receiving oxygen from a French doctor.
The programme also features new interviews with photographers and other witnesses to the crash.
Channel 4 has recently been forced to apologise on air over the alleged racist treatment of Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty on its Big Brother reality show. On Thursday it will raise Royal hackles again with a documentary on Camilla, now Duchess of Cornwall, claiming that Prince Charles is determined to make her Queen.
Royal Anecdotes banned the photographs of Diana’s death when they were made available, publishing a black space instead (pictured).
Well done, John. For the media to publish such photos of this adored Princess, knowing that the public and Princess Diana’s sons will be dreadfully upset by such callous actions, is truly despicable. I would say that those in charge of programming at Channel 4 have lost their moral compass. They certainly have chosen to ignore the Canons of Journalism and have abandoned any professionalism they may have achieved. Is it any wonder that many people no longer choose to watch television or read newspapers? Is it too much to ask that we be permitted to remember Princess Diana as we last saw her, happy, beautiful and in the prime of life?
By Gigi on May 28th, 2007 at 2:52 pm
They’re getting a rough ride in the press here, Gigi. I suspect they’ll pull this programme, or cut the pictures in the end.
By John on May 28th, 2007 at 3:04 pm
Morality is forgotten when it comes to audience and money. I also think the photos will be cut at last moment. That’s just great publicity for the programme. I would also add that photos published in 1998 in a German magazine, and in Italian newspapers last year were from a British photographer who were in the tunnel too. It seems she is still good mercantile business for this country.
By Lilyfromfrance on May 28th, 2007 at 4:17 pm
True, Lily, Diana pulls in the punters as she always did. It’s bad for her sons though. Imagine if it were your mother.
By John on May 28th, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Everyone has seen the aftermath of that tragic accident without having to see cheap shots of the occupants. This is the most vile and disgusting display of “Show me the Money” for photos that serve no purpose whats so ever except to bring pain to the families of those lost and the public that so loved Diana. I think a total boycott of the programme is in order.
By Trudie on May 28th, 2007 at 4:24 pm
I agree, Trudie, in an ideal world. Alas, it won’t happen, though.
By John on May 28th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
That would be a better decision, John, but what troubles me is that the person or persons who own that station chose to run the pictures in the first place. What kind of fellow would forsake his moral code, his decency and his humanity to that extent? This type of ‘commerce without conscience’ is indicative of a sickness that is beginning to infect many areas in the corporate world. Nowhere are it’s ravages more evident than in the media. Such perverse thinking, to my mind, is not characteristic of the British. Who are these people and where are their souls?
By Gigi on May 28th, 2007 at 4:32 pm
A boycott may be a good idea Trudie, but I don’t think it could work. Everybody knows everything about her life and the accident now, thats why C4 announced there will be pics of the accidents. It will be “new”, and a good way to bring millions of people. Simply because when she is on TV, many people see this as a good entertainment. There are people who watch her as if they were watching Titanic or Gladiator. Prepare a good meal and the kleenex box, Diana is on TV tonight.
By Lilyfromfrance on May 28th, 2007 at 4:38 pm
“On Thursday it will raise Royal hackles again with a documentary on Camilla, now Duchess of Cornwall, claiming that Prince Charles is determined to make her Queen.” Well, as far as this goes – folks need to be reminded that he could very well make this happen.
As far as publishing photos of the crash scene – I would not want to see them. Diana’s death was painful enough and I know I don’t want to re-live that awful moment when I first heard of her death. It took a long time to get over that. I’ll never forget how it seemed everyone was in a state of shock – even here in the USA. I woke up very early to watch her funeral (which was very beautiful) and I remember how sad I felt then. The only thing that has ever topped that emotion was 9/11 (and how…)
By On The Outside on May 28th, 2007 at 4:58 pm
I wish the media would allow that entire situation to become history. I suppose I could understand the importance of the photos but there is absolutely no reason the public need see them today, if ever. But I sort of had the same attitude about the movie The Queen. Even though it was well done I just wish they had waited more than 10 years. It’s too close to be history.
By Bex on May 28th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
The shame of it is that if the programme is broadcast, people will watch. And they will be the same ones that will speak of how horrific it was. This goes beyond anything that has been done so far.
By Joyce on May 28th, 2007 at 10:55 pm
John people can boycott the the companies that paid to advertise during the programme. It’s all about ratings and enough households do not watch it will send a message. Over here in the US we have the Nielson ratings, how do you determine which programmes are the most successful? If possible why don’t groups demonstrate outside of the studios and show their distaste it could be proven quite effective.
By Trudie on May 28th, 2007 at 10:56 pm
Where is the statement from the bodyguard that survived. I say show the pictures. Prince Charles needs to be reminded and so does the public. The boys will withstand the trauma as they did years ago.
By Bobo on May 28th, 2007 at 10:57 pm
I think the program should air. What about here in America, where we show the film of the JFK assisination. Think of how many times that has been watched and yet I never remember anyone saying how it would affect his children and that was of his actual death. It has been shown worldwide. Tell Wills and Harry to shut off the TV.
By Linda Bindariff on May 28th, 2007 at 11:22 pm
This is quite immoral. The family is still dealing with many unresolved issues and legal matters concerning Dianna’s death.
Still I grieve for her sons and have much sympathy for thier struggle to find life’s meaning with so many adjustments two young lads to have to contend with, not to think of re-living the horric way their mom’ s life was taken. We the whole world must love away thier pain rather than add more injury and painful memorys than what they should be expected to bear.
I do pitty the owners of the TV station who want to air the pics and pray that they planned to show. I warn them that they will bring a curse upon themselves.
Where is the sympathy, compassion, and love for our brothers and sisters?
By Rev. AGibson on May 29th, 2007 at 12:26 am
Good God, when will it ever end . Ever heard of Rest In Peace ?
Yes, just let them rip the family’s hearts right out again .
Money, Money , Money . Channel 4 , can’t you be more creative then this ? This is worst then PORN , never thought I would say that , but there you went and made me do it. Porn is a step up from this sickness .
By Ella on May 29th, 2007 at 12:53 am
What does it take to revoke a license for a television station in the UK? In the US, the FCC is in charge of licensing and if there are violations of the terms of the license, the station can be pulled off the air. If that is possible in the UK, I suggest someone with clout petition the necessary authorities.
By Gigi on May 29th, 2007 at 2:31 am
I agree with others that for a television station to display photos of Diana in the last moments of her life is not only dispicable but heartless as well. She was the “People’s Princess” and so of course every last bit of money must be squeezed from her memory with some new slant. This behavior for journalists is deplorable. God forgive them. May her sons’ memories be protected from such sights. I watched the news about Diana while it was happening, it was enough. May she and Mr. Fayed and their driver rest in peace. Susan from Iowa
By Susan Norman on May 29th, 2007 at 3:18 am
Why is she more important, then the many bodies that we see each day that have been killed in Iraq ?
By Richard on May 29th, 2007 at 4:58 am
It would be crazy if it would take these proportions. Channel 4 does employ a lot of people. Why should they suddenly become unemployed just because of 3 or 4 photos which everybody can find through Google? No one is forced to watch the programme. Simple as that
By Lilyfromfrance on May 29th, 2007 at 8:42 am
Yes, we have Nielson ratings too, Trudie.
The problem with Channel 4 is that it plays to the very minority audiences that support the present government in power. The Cuture Secretary is allegedly totally corrupt, her husband having allegedly taken bribes from Silvio Berlusconi, and she has personally driven the introduction of Supercasinos in the UK. That she’s now managing the massive Olympics 2012 project speaks volumes about Blair’s priorities and personal morality.
Getting them to turn off C4 would be like trying to find water on the moon.
By John on May 29th, 2007 at 9:58 am
Lily, Channel 4 makes the best documentaries around, no doubt about that. It also uses sleazy sex to bolster its later programming. If a decent Chairman was appointed, it would probably be the best channel on British TV, or anywhere. The original Chairman, Jeremy Isaacs is much missed.
By John on May 29th, 2007 at 10:02 am
Who’s problem is that? It is an indiviuals responsibility to not do the works of Satan. Have you never found another job because you discovered the powers of your company were pure evil. It’s a matter of morals and scrupples. The only thing you truly posess in this world is your name, would you want your name tied to something as inhumane, morbid and immoral as this. Theres alot more important things than money. I would be embarrassed to say I worked there. Here in the USA Theresa Earnhardt had to go to court to keep autopsy pictures of the late great Dale Earnhardt out of the press. It’s a sad day when there is that many truly tactless people in society. IF IT WERE YOU OR YOUR FAMILY MEMBER WOULD YOU WANT IT OUT THERE CIRCULATING? PUT YOURSELF IN SOMEONE ELSE’S SHOES NOW AND THEN,IT’S AS SIMPLE AS THAT!!!
Jamiefrom the USA
By Jamie Colvard on May 29th, 2007 at 10:08 am
Richard, are the Diana death photos representative of any journalistic interest? I don’t think you would want to give money for little children in Africa or in Kosovo thanks to these photos. It’s only a way to satisfy a morbid voyeurism.
Dead bodies in Irak that you can easily watch each day everywhere are linked with politics since it’s about a war. It’s journalistic. These pics are not announced with sensationalist. Diana, Dodi and the driver have no link with politics. So yes, she is not more important, but since she is still a huge interest, even for you since you post a comment about her, why should it be normal to see pics of 3 human being who didn’t ask nothing, without any journalistic interest, for a mercantile aim only?
I agree with the person who said that people who will watch the documentary is the same who think it’s horrible. People who are bored of her and of the story will not watch it. Just turn off the TV and all will be ok
By Lilyfromfrance on May 29th, 2007 at 11:09 am
True, in the world of 24-hour news, pictures of unknown dead bodies are seen by the score every day. Photographs of a very famous woman, idolized by many still today, are a very different matter, especially for her family.
If people really want to see them, they can search on Google, but that’s their choice. Broadcasting them directly into people’s homes is not playing by the rules at all.
By John on May 29th, 2007 at 12:43 pm
Even though I live in the USA, I adored Diana.
As with most of you, I agree, that it is horrible to even consider showing those accident pictures.
They should just let this beautiful young woman and her companions Rest in Peace.
I do wonder, why is it taking 10 years for an inquest?
By Karen on May 29th, 2007 at 10:54 pm
Lily I have to say that I think it is horrible and I wouldn’t watch it and no I am never bored of her. If I really wanted to see those pictures I would have googled them but never have and never will. As for Richard I hardly watch the news any more because I find it extremely hard to see bodies of innocent people being killed. Diana is not more important than these people we just do not know who they are nor do the families know who’s body is shown but the people are just as hurt by it. Think about it how would you react had Diana been your mother or sister or possibly your daughter? I hope you get the point.
By Trudie on May 30th, 2007 at 12:12 am
Because the Al Fayed legal team keeps delaying it with endless filibustering, Karen. They’ve already seen off two coroners, it’s only a matter of time before the new one walks out too.
By John on May 30th, 2007 at 8:25 am
You don’t have to convince me about the immorality to show these pictures Trudie. Yes ofcourse you’re not bored of her since you are here. People who will watch the thing is people who are not bored of her. Otherwise why watching it if you’re fed up of the story? I believe in the media’s freedom of speech and expression thats all, thats why I said the sentence just turn off the TV. No one is forced to watch nor to read anything. The best way to condemn the programme is to turn off your TV. Sad to think that Diana didn’t know how much she was loved in the US anyway.
By Lilyfromfrance on May 30th, 2007 at 8:26 am
Some of my comments today, get a bit off the original topic, but one thing gets me thinking of others.
Hope you can excuse the ramblings of an older lady.
————–
Since I made my first post yesterday, I’ve been thinking about all the comments, both pro and con.
My thoughts now, are that people should forget about the photos.
There will always be those who want to see horrible things such as the accident photos, and those who don’t.
People know that the media does pretty much what it wants to, regardless of what people think.
So, if they are aired. either look at them, or don’t.
In my humble opinion, and I don’t mean to offend anyone here but, I think they should take the interest in Diana’s photos, and turn that energy on to Camilla and Charles.
That relationship is a soap opera, and they are the villain’s!
I read recently, that Charles says Camilla will be Queen.
As I understand it, even Diana could never have been Queen!
I may be mistaken but, I understand that a woman can’t be Queen if she’s been divorced. Well that throws Camilla out the window before she gets to square 1.
I also understand, that is one reason Charles never married her before.
Just look at all the qualifications Diana had to pass, just to marry Charles!
Camilla couldn’t even come close to passing the requirements.
Not knowing how English government works, I’m taking a chance to ask why none of the above matters now?
And why England would even want a woman that is responsible for breaking up a home, having an affair with a married man, and father. ( Charles is no better than Camilla is though, as there wouldn’t have been an affair, if he wasn’t willing) Or even want her associated with the monarchy?
I can’t help but think, that if it weren’t for that affair, we would still have Diana, as she would still be with her husband and sons, and not with Al Fayed. It breaks my heart.
Not a lot of difference, between Charles, Camilla, and Bill Clinton, except Clinton wasn’t replacing Hillary.
The world, and people, never cease to amaze me.
By Karen on May 30th, 2007 at 6:44 pm
Well, in regards to Karen’s comment…let’s not forget that Diana had an affair too. And considering Charles and Camilla are now married it wasn’t exactly a cheap, passing fancy. I assume he must love her and considering his wide unpopularity with most people in Britain and abroad I don’t begrudge him his second wife.
Btw, have any of you read the Daily Mail article on Camilla? As an American I don’t really know what Ch. 4 is. Can anyone offer me some clarification?
By Bex on May 30th, 2007 at 9:08 pm
Bex Diana may have had an affair but that was long after Charlie and Cams long running escapades. Charlie and Cams may not be a passing fancy but they are cheap. Just remember who wore C&C cufflinks on the honeymoon and who’s picture fell out of his diary, Oh and lets not forget the Fred and Gladys bracelet he presented to Cams just before the wedding which Diana found out about and wanted to call off the wedding. The only qualification Cams had was her and her great-great grandmothers ability to be a great success in the bedroom.
By Trudie on May 30th, 2007 at 9:25 pm
Actually that was not Fred and Gladys but Girl Friday
By Lilyfromfrance on May 30th, 2007 at 9:31 pm
Girl Friday was what he told Diana it meant but Fred and Gladys were their pet names for each other Lily look it up in Diana her true story and some other books Lily I think it was also in the Royals by Kitty Kelly If i’m not mistaken. But either way when I married my former boyfriends did not have the need to give such a personal gift.
By Trudie on May 31st, 2007 at 1:17 am
So her infidelity is excused because he did it first? And, I might be wrong here I don’t know, but everything information the public has is speculation or stories recalled, no? Some of it is bound to be distorted, and if it is I would guess it’s slanted against Prince Charles.
By Bex on May 31st, 2007 at 3:41 am
*”Everything” should be “all the”. Sorry!
By Bex on May 31st, 2007 at 3:42 am
Trudie, Fred and Gladys was what Diana believed. Thats why it was in the book her True Story. Kitty Kelley’s book isn’t an investigation or something. She just re-wrote what she read in articles and books. There isnt any interview or something in her book. I didn’t read it but I know. It was really Girl Friday. From what Girl Friday does mean I hardly doubt it was what Charles told her.
Bex, I dont live in Britain anymore but I can tell you what Channel 4 is, if you’re interested by a French’s point of view ofcourse
C4 is a a tv station rather soliciting, between ITV and Five, if I remember well, full of crap programmes about how to look better, how to grow richer etc and full of real tv. It tries to make people obsessed by being property owners. Not very nice towards the Monarchy. Like any crap station, it tries to buy a good conscience by broadcasting some very good documentaries such as Dispatches. I also like the very funny Gordon Ramsay’s programme. Well, thats it. Im still traumatized by what I watched in Eurotrash when I was a kid for being clement towards C4
By Lilyfromfrance on May 31st, 2007 at 8:15 am
Thanks lily I must have misinterpreted what I read. But If I am not mistaken Kitty Kelly did conduct interviews for her book I actually found it somewhat amusing.
By Trudie on May 31st, 2007 at 12:43 pm
Kitty Kelly is never the most reliable reporter though.
By John on May 31st, 2007 at 12:46 pm
Thanks Lily!
By Bex on May 31st, 2007 at 2:29 pm
You’re welcome!
By Lilyfromfrance on May 31st, 2007 at 2:51 pm
I am sickened and disgusted that channel 4 would show such a programme when its purely to get ratings against a baclash of people watching other channels or maybe even doing something more useful with their lives such as reading a book or spending time with real people in the real world…get a grip channel 4 and show a nice documentary on how fat cat bosses need more money from advertisers through high viewing numbers to feed their drug and prostitute habits!
By ambrose stanyer-hunter on June 5th, 2007 at 9:57 pm
This is an absolte disgrace and must be stopped. It sickens me to think that a producer will use dreadful photos such as these to boost his own ratings. Has he no conscience? Would he show pictures of his own dead mother? I THINK NOT!
If this goes ahead, I and many others will never watch this channel again. You’d think they would have learnt their lesson after last years Big Brother mockery.
By J Dalton on June 6th, 2007 at 9:46 am