Controversial Jimmy Saville drama delayed by the BBC as they demand more focus be put on victims
THE TV drama based on the sex crimes of Jimmy Savile is being held up as BBC bosses fear it could look like a biopic of the monster.
The Reckoning will star Steve Coogan as the paedophile TV and radio presenter.
The drama was always intended to show how it affected those on the receiving end of his sexual abuse.
But after seeing early versions, BBC execs called for the focus on victims to be boosted to prevent anyone misinterpreting it as a show about Savile himself.
A TV insider said: “There has been much speculation about how a programme that was first announced three years ago has yet to appear on our screens.
“The BBC have simply maintained they wanted to take their time and get the final version right.
“They understand it’s an incredibly delicate balance to strike and have a duty of care to the victims.
“So they will feature far more in the drama itself, as well as real life victims who will be appearing during the series.”
The BBC was particularly worried that the Savile drama could be uncomfortable viewing as ITV1 is this autumn showing a drama, The Long Shadow, which looks at the victims of serial killer Peter Sutcliffe.
The Reckoning has yet to have a firm air date but it is expected to be shown around the same time.
A BBC spokesman said: “The focus of the drama has not shifted.
“We have always said that we’re working closely with many people whose lives were impacted by Savile, including survivors — four of whom also feature in the drama.”