BBC axes flagship interview show HARDTalk

In a significant development, renowned BBC presenter Stephen Sackur on Tuesday announced the end of HARDtalk, the long-running current affairs program, after nearly 30 years of thought-provoking interviews with global leaders and influential personalities.

Sackur shared the news on X (formerly known as Twitter), expressing his disappointment at the BBC's decision to close the show.

“This is sad news for me personally, but much more important, I think it’s depressing news for the BBC,” said Sackur. He emphasized the crucial role HARDtalk played in promoting in-depth, independent journalism at a time when misinformation and media manipulation are on the rise.

“HARDtalk is unique—a long-form interview show with only one mission: to hold to account those who all too often avoid accountability in their own countries,” he added.

Over the years, HARDtalk earned a reputation for hosting critical conversations with prominent figures such as Hugo Chavez, Sergei Lavrov, Meles Zenawi, Lula, Nancy Pelosi, Recep Tayep Erdogan, Emmanuel Macron, Imran Khan, Olusegan Abasanjo, and countless others.

Sackur also expressed regret over the breakup of the "brilliant team of producers and researchers" that worked behind the scenes, particularly at a time when BBC Director-General Tim Davie has been campaigning for the BBC World Service's funding.

Reflecting on his career, Sackur acknowledged, "I’ve been enormously fortunate to pursue my journalism within the BBC," thanking global audiences for their unwavering support throughout the years.

Looking ahead, Sackur mentioned he will be exploring new opportunities next year, reaffirming his commitment to BBC.

"Next year I’ll be looking to stretch my legs and embrace new opportunities. My commitment to rigorous exploration of world affairs won’t change. I hope the BBC’s doesn’t either," he concluded.