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The Explanation
The Media Show: The mystery freelancer
The Explanation
Aug 28, 2025

A number of publications, including Wired and Business Insider, have withdrawn articles initially attributed to a freelance journalist named Margaux Blanchard. Press Gazette first reported the concerns after an editor flagged a suspicious pitch. The true identity of the writer and whether AI authored the pieces remain unclear. Jacob Furedi, editor of Dispatch, and Dr Glenda Cooper, Head of Journalism at City St George’s, University of London, discuss.

The new football season arrives alongside changes in coverage. Two YouTube channels - The Overlap and That’s Football - have secured live UK rights to show some Bundesliga matches. Minal Modha, Head of Sport Media Rights at Ampere Analysis, explains the strategy. Graham Scott, columnist at Telegraph Sport, on pivoting to journalism from his previous role as a Premier League referee.

Parenthood is the latest BBC wildlife series narrated by David Attenborough. It was filmed across 23 countries and six continents, following how animals raise their young. Jeff Wilson, series producer and director at Silverback Films, reveals how it was made.

Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant producer: Martha Owen Production co-ordinator: Ruth Waites Sound: Holly Palmer Technical co-ordinator: James Cherry

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Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Mark Pickett


22min 59sec

The Media Show: The mystery freelancer

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