STAGE AND SCREEN



Why is the BBC also known as 'Auntie'? Christine Whyte, Glasgow UK BBC Written Archives offers the following about the origin of the word "Auntie" to describe the BBC: "A phrase of obscure origin: presumably journalistic, possibly from cartoons. Increasingly used in 1950s to contrast BBC's prudish, cosy, puritanical "refained" image with that of the much brasher ITV. Certainly had wide currency by July 1959: see cuttings on Hugh Carleton Greene's appointment as Director-General. Greene himself told Peter Black (Daily Mail, 31.7.1959) that he thought it was "probably" a hangover from Reithian days." Tim, London In the early years of its development the administrators were largely of middle class origins and demonstrated daily that they knew what was best for listeners and later on the viewers.This was derided by critics as the "Auntie knows best" syndrome. Hence the shortened version of "Auntie". Jack Hill, St Albans England "Auntie B" or "Aunt B" is the popular character from Mayberry RFD. Just as Aunt B was always sticking her nose in Andy's business and offering unsolicited tidbits of questionable advice, "Auntie B" (or "Auntie Beeb") for many years always look out for what was "best for us." There. Chevron, Basingstoke It was originally a put down, inferring that the BBC did not listen to critism, advice or requests from people other than themselves. "Auntie knows best, Dear!". Dave Bush, Leamington Spa Warks. While Mr Hill is essentially correct that the name refers to the Corporation's matron-like attitude, its exact origin is in the sobriquet "Auntie Beeb", used with mock-affection by the comic broadcaster Kenny Everett, likening the BBC's censorious attitudes to those of a repressed maiden aunt. John Bennett, Glasgow Scotland I googled this in the certainty that loads of people had posted the answer I have. I am not digressing when I make this passing reference to the "camp" language used by "Julian and Sandy" on the "Round the Horne" comedy radio series. Has noone out there noticed that the Romani word for "aunty" is "bibi" pronounced, okay, you've guessed it.... Davy Cannon, Dorchester, UK



Add your answer













