Miriam O’Reilly Wins Age Discrimination Suit Against the BBC

Miriam O’Reilly was a presenter on Countryfile on the BBC in 2009 when she was replaced. She claimed she was replaced because of her gender and her age. She was 51. She refused to settle and went to court and yesterday was vindicated. The count of gender discrimination was dismissed.

Here’s what O’Reilly said:

It wasn’t about the money. I just wanted my career back…I took this action because I wanted to work for the BBC. I’m really impressed that they have apologised. However, we have a long way to go with ageism in visual media — not just the BBC, the whole industry.

Here’s what her lawyer Camilla Parker said:

This has huge implications for all broadcasters not just the BBC. The lesson is that presenters should be selected for their ability not their age…Women and men on screen should not be hired or fired on the basis of their age.

Age discrimination is a huge issue for women especially in the news business.

Miriam O’Reilly: I was right to stand up to BBC (Guardian)
Miriam O’Reilly case: winners and losers (The Guardian)


In Her Voice News Brief, May 31

Note: We are going to be sharing the transcripts from the podcasts when we can. Transcript from Podcast on May 31. If you would rather listen, click here. Holiday weekends inevitably lead to quieter...

In Her Voice Podcast Episodes- May 26

This week on the news brief we focus on Cannes including a bit on Jennifer Lawrence. In the weekly interview, we chat with Erica Saleh, showrunner and member of the WGA negotiating committee. She...

In Her Voice News Brief- May 17, 2023

Check out our latest news brief talking about why the Cannes Film Festival is important and problematic. Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple

Posts Search

Publishing Dates
Start date
- select start date -
End date
- select end date -
Category
News
Films
Interviews
Features
Trailers
Festivals
Television
RESET