BBC’s veteran anchor under fire over off-air conduct; accused of inappropriate remarks and unfounded accusations
Naga Munchetty, a veteran BBC presenter of Indian origin, is facing serious allegations of bullying and inappropriate off-air behaviour, raising new questions about workplace culture at the UK’s national broadcaster. Munchetty, 50, best known for her role on BBC Breakfast, has reportedly been reprimanded over at least two incidents within the past three years, reported financialexpress.com.
According to reports, one incident involved Munchetty allegedly making a lewd comment during an off-air break, using slang for a sex act directed at a colleague. Those present described the remark as “crass, inappropriate, and wildly unprofessional,” leaving the recipient visibly uncomfortable. While a senior producer reportedly stepped in to address the matter, no formal disciplinary action was taken.
BBC presenter Naga Munchetty accused of inappropriate behaviour and unfounded theft claim; spotlight on workplace culture at national broadcaster
In a separate 2024 incident, Munchetty allegedly accused a junior female colleague of theft—a claim insiders insist was baseless. The confrontation, which reportedly occurred behind closed doors, left the staff member “humiliated” and “demoralised,” prompting her eventual exit from the BBC. “It really is the tip of the iceberg,” one insider told The Sun, suggesting other similar incidents may have gone unreported.
These developments come as the BBC is already grappling with internal investigations into bullying, including a formal probe into BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani. He has been accused of yelling at staff, kicking bins, and even physically shaking a female employee. Frediani is currently on extended leave, with sources citing a strained relationship between him and the show’s presenters—Munchetty and co-host Charlie Stayt.
Ironically, Munchetty herself had earlier raised concerns with BBC leadership over Frediani’s conduct. However, the growing list of complaints across the organisation is prompting broader scrutiny. “Fredi has no relationship with Charlie and Naga. They don’t talk,” said a senior BBC insider.
In response, the BBC issued a general statement reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct: “We take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values,” a spokesperson said. “We have robust processes in place and encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us.”
Who Is Naga Munchetty?
Born Subha Nagalakshmi Munchetty-Chendriah in February 1975, she earned the nickname “Naga” after her mother reportedly dreamed of snakes during pregnancy. Growing up in the UK, Munchetty has spoken about being teased for her name and experiencing racism during her school years. Despite early challenges, she carved out a successful journalism career, working with BBC World News, Working Lunch, and eventually becoming a fixture on BBC Breakfast since 2010.
