US President Donald Trump has confirmed plans to sue the BBC for $1 billion (£760 million), claiming the broadcaster aired a doctored version of one of his speeches on its Panorama programme.
The announcement follows a legal notice sent by Trump’s team to BBC Chairman Samir Shah, warning that the network’s actions caused “overwhelming financial and reputational harm.”
The letter, written by Trump’s lawyer Alejandro Brito, stated:
“President Trump will be left with no alternative but to enforce his legal rights, including by filing legal action for no less than $1,000,000,000 in damages. The fabricated statements aired by the BBC have been widely disseminated, reaching tens of millions worldwide.”
Brito also added, “The BBC is on notice.”
A BBC spokesperson responded briefly, saying:
“We will review the letter and respond directly in due course.”
Speaking to Fox News host Laura Ingraham on Tuesday, Trump said he felt an “obligation” to move forward with the lawsuit, accusing the BBC of defrauding the public and misrepresenting his January 6 speech.
“They took a beautiful, calming speech and turned it into something radical,” Trump said. “It was very dishonest — and the head man quit.”
He was referring to BBC director-general Tim Davie, who resigned on Sunday, shortly before the lawsuit news broke.
Trump also cited his previous legal victory over CBS News’ 60 Minutes, claiming the network paid $16 million in a settlement, with an additional $20 million expected from the new owners of CBS.
He has reportedly given the BBC until Friday, 5 p.m. EST (10 p.m. UK time) to comply with his demands before proceeding with legal action.
