Misha Glenny Takes the helm of BBC Radio 4’s ‘In Our Time’ Amidst BBC Turmoil
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A new era has begun for BBC Radio 4’s intellectual flagship program, In Our Time, with journalist adn broadcaster Misha Glenny succeeding Melvyn Bragg as host. The transition, marked by a shift in vocal tone “from a nasal mature Cumbrian to a smoother, deeper, younger north Oxford tone,†arrives during a period of significant upheaval for the British Broadcasting Corporation.
Glenny’s debut episode, aired on Thursday, tackled John Stuart Mill’s 1859 philosophical treatise, on Liberty. The choice of subject matter was purposeful, with the BBC potentially seeking to avoid metaphorical pitfalls — navigating the “Bragg Trench,†as one observer described the challenge of following the program’s 27-year host. The lines between freedom and tyranny,explored in Mill’s work,are particularly resonant given current geopolitical events,including the ascensions of leaders in Russia and the United States.
The program’s launch wasn’t without its awkward moments. A promotional trail on the Today program saw Glenny seemingly caught off guard when questioned about the show’s reception, responding with a mumbled indication that it hadn’t yet aired — despite being pre-recorded, as confirmed by radio 4.
A Familiar Format with a Global Reach
Beyond the change in host, the core structure of in Our Time remains intact. The inaugural episode featured an academic panel comprised of Helen McCabe (University of Nottingham), Mark Philp (Warwick), and Piers Norris Turner (Ohio), with the inclusion of an American academic signaling a potential broadening of the program’s international audience. The format, frequently enough likened to a “varsity seminar,†continues to pit younger academics against more seasoned scholars.
Glenny’s approach, in contrast to Bragg’s frequently enough assertive style, was characterized by “proper humility,†as he navigated the complexities of the subject matter. While Bragg was known for catchphrases like “could you unpack that for us?†and “yes, I’m not actually thick,†Glenny opted for a more polite tone, responding to disagreements with a chuckling “that’s a different issue!†.
The selection of On Liberty as the debut topic may also have been influenced by concerns over potential legal repercussions. A source suggested the BBC was wary of triggering a second substantial lawsuit from a former US president, given the program’s potential to touch upon sensitive political issues. The conversation, while exploring the concepts of liberty, deliberately avoided naming specific individuals or places, focusing instead on abstract notions of “despotism†and “bigotry.â€
BBC Faces Multiple Leadership Vacancies
The In Our Time succession occurs against a backdrop of broader instability within the BBC. The resignations of Director-General Tim Davie and head of News Deborah Turness, stemming from a dispute over editing decisions that led to litigation, have left key leadership positions vacant. The popular television program Strictly Come Dancing is also currently without hosts, adding to the sense of disruption.
The future of In Our Time is certain to be a topic of discussion during upcoming negotiations regarding the BBC’s charter renewal.The Glenny incumbency, while avoiding any “dumbing down†of content — a significant risk during funding debates — will need to demonstrate broader appeal to secure its long-term future.
In Our Time airs on BBC radio Four and is available on BBC Sounds.
