A BULLYING investigation has rocked the BBC’s flagship morning show.
It follows claims the atmosphere on BBC Breakfast has become toxic, with hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt falling out.
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And boss Richard Frediani has been accused of “tyrannical” behaviour.
A source said: “To the viewer BBC Breakfast is a warm, gentle programme, one that is flourishing in the ratings.
“But beyond the cosy red sofa it is a very different picture.”
It is just the latest crisis to hit the BBC following a torrid 12 months which saw disgraced newsreader Huw Edwards arrested, Strictly Come Dancing pros come under investigation and Match of the Day star Jermaine Jenas axed for inappropriate behaviour.
Just a month ago, Frediani, known as Fredi, was pictured proudly clutching the programme’s Bafta award for its coverage of the Post Office scandal.
But, away from the cameras, the source revealed all was not well, saying: “Several people — crew, production and even presenters — have been very unhappy.
“Tension between Charlie and Naga is rife.
Formal complaints have been lodged, so the BBC has to be seen to act. The probe has really divided the newsroom.
Source
“Fredi is very old-school and has some slightly tyrannical tendencies. He is very cerebral but also quite aggressive in his methods. Some people think a recent promotion has gone to his head.
“Meanwhile, Naga, who is passionate about speaking up if she believes something is wrong, has spoken to people who are unhappy.
“Formal complaints have been lodged, so the BBC has to be seen to act. The probe has really divided the newsroom.
“There are people who think Fredi is just doing his job, trying to get the most out of people and with excellent results.
“Others think his methods are too tough, especially in 2025.”
Other presenters including Sally Nugent and John Kay are said to have been asked for their views.
The show’s deputy editor Liam Blyth has been conducting sessions with staff to explain the previously published Culture Review.
The sessions are taking place across BBC News — independent of any HR complaints about Breakfast.
It comes three months after industry site Deadline alleged Frediani — regarded as the most powerful BBC exec outside London — faced at least two misconduct complaints. One of them led to a formal grievance last year.
‘Believes he will be vindicated’
Complainants alleged they were shouted at when mistakes were made on-air, while one person witnessed Frediani walk out of the production gallery and kick a bin.
In another incident last year, Frediani allegedly physically shook a lower-ranking female editor. It was investigated by the BBC and the woman’s complaint was upheld.
Another BBC insider defended Frediani, saying: “Yes, he is a bit of perfectionist but he is very well liked by many. He is aware of the issues and believes he will be vindicated.”
It was also reported Naga and Charlie, who present from Thursdays to Saturdays, had fallen out.
But in a recent interview Naga insisted they were “good friends”.
The BBC said it would not comment on HR issues.
However another BBC insider added: “The welfare of employees takes priority and the BBC’s code of conduct sets out clear expectations.”
