I settled down to watch Jerry Springer: The Opera on Saturday evening, knowing full well the controversy that had ensued (and continues today with a BBC producer resigning). Whilst I had been planning on watching it long before I heard of the controversy, I can’t deny I was encouraged all the more precisely because of the fuss that was stoked up.
I thoroughly enjoyed it. Provocative it most certainly was, but fascinating and enjoyable none the less. Whilst I think it is important to respect peoples beliefs, the cries of blasphemy and moral outrage seemed to be signs from a group who felt that their beliefs and sensibilities outweighed the obligations of the BBC (and other media) to cater to the interest and beliefs of others. The BBC was correct to broadcast the program: This country has many millions, including myself, who do not consider themselves religious in any way, and wish to see and experience challenging programming from our national media.
The choice is simple to me: If you don’t think you’ll like it, don’t watch it. The controversy that was stoked up served as enough of a warning, and the show was riddled (almost to detraction) with warnings about “possible offensive religious imagery”.
With a free press and freedom of expression, what some perceive as blasphemy is inevitable. I’d argue it could then even be seen as a barometer of freedom of expression, for if the media are unable to criticise the opinions and beliefs of a religious organisation, I’d have little hope they’d be able to criticise much else - including the political institutions and establishment. The BBC and mainstream media aside, there is still room for improvement as the recent controversial play demonstrates.
Leaving the controversy, the performance and cast of Jerry Springer was excellent. Laced with humour and stunning vocals, and some excellent pieces, it really was a treat - as well as a being the first opera I’ve watched in it’s entirety. It’s just a shame the sound track can’t be purchased.
Finally, I can’t have been the only viewer who was a little disappointed David Soul didn’t actually strike up and sing at least once…
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January 9th, 2006 at 6:57 pm
[...] Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsey have been “cleared” by Ofcom regarding the inclusion of scenes in which animals (a lamb, and turkeys respectively) were killed. When I heard about this I was minded to complain about the complaints themselves, as yet another pathetic knee-jerk reaction to perfectly sensible goings on (Much like the Jerry Springer: The opera hooha). [...]
March 24th, 2006 at 11:19 am
[...] Freedom of expression, and freedom of speech, are important rights that seem to be under sustained attack by various groups (see here, for example). Some groups seem to be actively seeking out offence, and parading their supposed insult as a justification to further restrict liberties, whilst at the same time using the selfsame rights and liberties to ensure their opinions are heard when it is convenient or expedient for them to do so. [...]