The BBC has come under scrutiny after removing or editing several sketches from the children’s television series *Horrible Histories* on its iPlayer platform in an effort to align with current editorial guidelines. The changes include the removal of an episode featuring the show’s creator, Terry Deary, portraying Father Christmas, alongside other satirical sketches from the first series.
*Horrible Histories*, which first aired in 2009 and is based on Deary’s book series, is known for its comedic yet historically grounded portrayals of sometimes gruesome or controversial aspects of history. The show employs humor to engage children with subjects ranging from medieval punishments to Roman slavery, using sketches that include exaggerated physical comedy and historical references.
The censored episode reportedly included segments satirizing personal injury lawyers with a no-win-no-fee advertisement parody involving a child factory worker, and a sketch depicting Roman slaves chained to galley ships undergoing a mock safety briefing akin to modern airline announcements. Another clip featured a chimney sweep and a blackened-faced apprentice clearing a blocked flue, culminating in the appearance of Deary as a sooty Father Christmas. Some of these portrayals, particularly the use of blackface makeup on actors playing chimney sweeps, have raised concerns about racial sensitivity.
The BBC described these edits as routine measures to ensure content adheres to contemporary editorial standards and audience expectations. A spokesperson explained that changes to programmes on iPlayer are made on a case-by-case basis and often involve consultation with the original creators, although no specific department oversees this process. The corporation emphasized that the intent is to reflect evolving societal values and industry practices.
Terry Deary, the series creator, declined to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, members of the *Horrible Histories* cast have previously addressed questions around race and representation. Actor Mathew Baynton acknowledged that while the show did not use traditional blackface, actors sometimes altered their appearances, such as wearing spray tans, to depict various historical groups. Baynton also noted the original core cast’s lack of ethnic diversity, a factor the BBC has cited in its pledge to increase representation and expand the historical narratives explored in later productions. In a 2024 statement, the BBC highlighted ongoing efforts to authentically represent a broader range of global histories and audiences.
The controversy over *Horrible Histories* follows a broader pattern of the BBC reviewing other comedy programmes for potentially offensive material. Earlier this month, the broadcaster removed 11 sketches featuring blackface from the BAFTA-winning sketch series *That Mitchell And Webb Look*, also on iPlayer. The banned content included satirical portrayals that addressed sensitive subjects such as racial stereotypes and religious attire, though the original creators have emphasized the ironic and non-malicious nature of their humor.
The BBC’s actions have sparked debate over the balance between preserving artistic and comedic intent and responding to heightened sensitivities about race and representation. Some argue that the revisions reflect necessary progress in media standards, while others view them as excessive and inconsistent, questioning why comparable sketches remain accessible. The ongoing discussions highlight the challenges faced by broadcasters in navigating evolving cultural expectations alongside legacy content.