A Smooth Transition, But Uncertain Times for BBC’s *In Our Time*
The BBC Radio 4 program In Our Time has begun a new chapter with historian John Glenny taking over hosting duties from Melvyn Bragg. While the transition appears seamless, it occurs amidst broader instability within the BBC, including recent leadership resignations and ongoing legal challenges.
Cautious Start for New Host
Glenny’s debut reportedly proceeded cautiously, with a focus on avoiding controversy. Sources indicate a sensitivity within the BBC to potential legal repercussions, notably from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Concerns arose regarding the possibility of triggering a further lawsuit, estimated at $10 billion, stemming from previous editorial decisions.This caution was evident in the program’s avoidance of contemporary political figures or events, opting instead for a discussion of John Stuart Mill and Harriet Taylor Mill.
The initial broadcast was preceded by a somewhat awkward interview on the Today program, where Glenny appeared hesitant to discuss the show’s reception before its official airing. Radio 4 later confirmed the episode was pre-recorded.
Maintaining the *In Our Time* Format
The first episode under Glenny’s leadership largely maintained the established format of the program,featuring a panel of three academics: Helen McCabe (University of Nottingham),Mark Philp (Warwick),and Piers Norris Turner (Ohio). The inclusion of an American academic suggests an intention to broaden the show’s international appeal. The discussion centered on the intellectual partnership between John Stuart Mill and his wife, Harriet Taylor Mill, with particular attention given to the argument that taylor Mill was a significant, yet frequently enough overlooked, co-author of his work.
Observers noted a purposeful avoidance of applying the philosophical concepts discussed to current events, with references to “despots” and “governments” remaining abstract. This approach likely reflects the heightened sensitivity surrounding potential legal challenges.
Glenny’s Style and Bragg’s Legacy
Glenny’s hosting style was described as more deferential than Bragg’s, resembling a junior academic leading a seminar rather than a seasoned professor. Bragg was known for his dynamic persona, shifting between a challenging inquisitor and an engaged learner depending on his familiarity with the topic. Glenny, in contrast, adopted a scrupulously polite tone, expressing disagreement with a gentle “that’s a different issue!” rather than Bragg’s more direct interjections, such as “yes, I’m not actually thick.”
BBC in Flux
The transition of In Our Time‘s host occurs during a period of significant upheaval at the BBC. Tim Davie resigned as Director-General and deborah Turness stepped down as Head of News following a controversy over the editing of a Panorama report concerning Donald Trump, which led to the aforementioned legal threat. Moreover, the popular television program Strictly Come Dancing is currently without hosts.
The future of In Our Time is likely to be a topic of discussion during upcoming negotiations regarding the BBC’s charter renewal. While Glenny’s debut avoided “dumbing down” – a key concern during funding negotiations – he will need to establish a stronger, more distinctive presence to fully claim the role as host.
published: 2026/01/17 05:16:41
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