Summary of complaint
We have received complaints about Call Jonathan Pie, broadcast in the 6:30pm comedy slot on Radio 4.
Our response
Jonathan Pie is a well-known satirical character with an established reputation for highly opinionated rants on social media. This sitcom reimagines him as a phone-in host, exploring the clash between his personal and professional worlds and these broadcasts bring his unique, acclaimed satire to a wider Radio 4 adult audience.Ìý
Each episode includes a warning for listeners about language and content, with the strongest language from the original podcast versions edited out for this repeat 6.30pm broadcast.Ìý
We recognise that the programmes still include some moderately offensive language and that this isn’t to everyone’s taste. However, Radio 4 is a primarily adult-orientated station and audience data shows that even during early evening slots, the overwhelming majority of listeners are adults.Ìý
The language used is intended to serve a clear editorial purpose, helping to portray Jonathan Pie as a flawed character whose views and behaviour are frequently challenged within the narrative.Ìý
We value all feedback and take listeners concerns seriously, and we hope this explanation provides some context for the editorial decisions made on this occasion.
Ìý