The Explanation
May 21, 2026
A Channel 5 documentary filmed inside El Salvador’s Cecot prison has drawn attention to the country’s tough approach to gang crime and the questions around filming in tightly controlled places. The prison holds thousands of suspected gang members and has become a powerful symbol of President Nayib Bukele’s security policies. Richard Madeley describes the strict conditions faced by the first British production team allowed inside, when filming Inside the World's Mega Prison.
Matt Brittin has this week started work as BBC Director General. He joins the corporation at a time of financial pressure, changing viewing habits and growing debate about the power of technology companies. Matt Brittin joins The Media Show to set out his early priorities. Rosamund Urwin, Media Editor at The Sunday Times, gives her assessment.
Allegations linked to Channel 4’s Married at First Sight have raised new concerns about welfare standards in reality television after a BBC Panorama investigation reported claims from former participants. Channel 4 has ordered an external review and removed all ten series from streaming while political and regulatory questions continue. Noor Nanji, Culture Correspondent at the BBC, outlines her reporting behind the investigation.
Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Volodymyr Muzyczka
The President's Path: The US-Saudi nuclear deal
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss what we know about the US-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal, the implications for the fragile balance of power in the Middle East, and the fact that Israel could now make or break the agreement.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]
The President's Path: Trump accuses China of US election 'meddling'
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann give their immediate reaction straight after Trump's primetime address, discussing the president's claims of Chinese interference in the 2020 election, the political response, and what the speech could mean for the upcoming midterm elections.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at [email protected]
