By James Simons-
Controversial television host Piers Morgan continues to be source of several complaints on his popular Good Morning Britain show.
Morgan has so far gathered 700 complaints to Ofcom for frequent shouting and confrontations with guests on his show
Tipping Point’s Ben Shephard presented Thursday’s show alongside Susanna, who viewers more regularly see with Piers Morgan.
The most severe reactions from viewers have been related to interviews with celebrity hairdresser Adee Phelan, former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani and a lawyer representing George Floyd cop Thomas Lane.
Also, star snipper Adee swore three times during his appearance on the show last week, in which he ranted about the government’s handling of the coronavirus crisis and spoke about the Black Lives Matter movement.
He declared the government “needs to get their s**t in order” and added: “What’s happening in the government is bulls**t!”
Morgan’s failure to criticise Andee for his choice of language was wrong and reflects the presenter’s own inadequate standards when it comes to courtesy and setting good examples. When a television presenter gets frequent complaints from viewers, it means it is time for them to begin to review their methods.
This is not likely for Morgan who is set in his ways, and too arrogant to admit his weaknesses and change them. Good judgement is not one of the presenter’s strong points and unless he improves his presentation, he will only attract more critics and enemies than fans and friends.
The former Daily Mirror editor is good at questioning people and exposing weak responses. Going before Piers on a topic not thoroughly researched or understood is suicidal for any guest on his show. He is good when it comes to destroying incompetent guests by ripping apart their argument.
Where Morgan struggles to impress genuine critics is in the often rude way he interjects before his guests have made their point.
Attitudes like that suggests both arrogance and a lack of empathy for the feelings and image of his guests. Exposing weaknesses is Morgan’s duty, but doing so with dignity is also important.
Abrupt interruptions may sometimes be necessary, but when this becomes a regular aspect of his style and attitude, it becomes a problem.
Sooner or later, Ofcom will have to effectively addressed the growing complaints against him, by either dismissing them as unfounded, unnecessary, or stating them as valid.
The broadcasting regulator assesses complaints on a case by case basis, and will often let them mount before deciding whether they have reached a point that calls for action. It is better for Morgan to take that action himself and correct his shortfalls, before Ofcom or ITV themselves conclude they have had enough of him.
Morgan has recently made clear that he considers his bosses made of solid stuff, when comparing them to BBC bosses in the case of Emilie Maitilis.