MX23RW : Thursday, March 28 12:36:05| >> :600:73133252:73133252:

Channel 4 keen to show The Queen's speech?

Channel 4 keen to show The Queen's speech?
© Reuters
Channel 4 reportedly applies to broadcast The Queen's speech on Christmas Day.

Channel 4 has reportedly applied to show The Queen's speech on Christmas Day this year.

The annual 3pm address is traditionally broadcast on the BBC, ITV and news channels including Sky, while for the last 28 years Channel 4 has broadcast its own "alternative" Christmas message at the same time.

Last year the alternative speech was a controversial 'deep fake' address from The Queen in which she discussed Megxit and danced on top of her desk.

According to The Sun, however, Channel 4 has performed a complete U-turn this year and is keen to simulcast the real speech.

"This is a bold and unprecedented move from Channel 4," a source told the newspaper.

"But they are a public broadcaster, too, and don't have any axes to grind. Bosses are continually looking to expand the broadcaster's remit and give viewers fresh and unexpected programming.

"They've made it clear they would like to film the speech this year - especially if the Royals punish the Beeb and withdraw their rights, although that does seem unlikely. But the Royal family have shown they have backbone and won't stand for much more nonsense.

"Channel 4 would definitely love to show the Queen's speech this year should the BBC be punished again."

Channel 4 would be likely to drop its alternative message should it get permission to broadcast The Queen's speech.

ID:471598:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:collect2381:

Follow us on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.

Media Mole Limited-Time Offer: Get Sky Cinema, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £27 a month + £0 upfront fee for 18 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends 21st March 2024


Click here for more stories about The Queen

Collect / Create New Data
Share this article now:
BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg pictured in January 2019
Read Next:
Laura Kuenssberg to step down as BBC political editor?
>
Read more about The Queen Entertainment
rhs 2.0
New TV Picks header

Thursday, March 28


The Hotel Inspector: Channel 5, 9pm
She's back! Alex kicks off a new series by aiding a struggling tearoom in Somerset

The Apprentice: BBC One, 9pm
The remaining candidates must pick and sell items live on a TV shopping channel

EastEnders: BBC One, 7.30pm and iPlayer, from 6am
Callum tries to do what he can as the fallout from Ben's arrest continues...