1976: OTTO FRANK on the Diary of Anne Frank | Blue Peter | Children's Television | BBC Archive

Lesley Judd interviews Otto Frank - the father of Anne Frank - who has made a special visit to Britain to show Blue Peter viewers his daughter's original diaries. Valerie Singleton, meanwhile, reports from Anne Frank's house in Amsterdam on the story behind the diary.
Originally broadcast 10 May, 1976.
To mark the BBC's 100th birthday, our wonderful archivists have been asked to pick THEIR favourite BBC moments.
"It was a sensitive, memorable interview, in the last year before Otto Frank's death, a perfect example of the BBC's commitment to outstanding television for children - respecting its audience and not talking down to them, delivering the 'inform and educate' principles as strongly and purposely as they did for adult audiences." - Deborah.
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[@Kirsten_is_cursed10]

I did a book report on Anne Frank back in 6th grade in 2005, and my teacher tried to tell me it was “not appropriate” for my age group. I feel that, if Anne was old enough to go through this, then we are old enough to read it.

[@saraschneider6781]

I made my school librarian get it from the middle school library when I was in kindergarten.

[@dunker982]

Oh dear. Maybe your teacher needs to look for a different job.

[@saraschneider6781]

@@dunker982 it honestly depends on what version was used. The unaltered version has a lot of sexual content. But then again The Color Purple was on the reading list for Junior year at my VERY conservative Christian high school.

[@saraschneider6781]

@@sarahpersonalexcellenceguide I wouldn't call that 4th grade gifted material. More 1st-2nd.

[@chestnut1279]

@@sarahpersonalexcellenceguide I agree. And it never ceases to amaze me that the same people who fly confederate flags will tell someone their child shouldn't read the diary of Anne Frank. They're proud of a heritage of rape, abuse, murder, dog mauling, family separations, and all manner of cruelty that would make their Jesus weep, but nah, can't read about a vagina. This world is so backwards. Beware the fascist book burners. That's my prayer

[@JoeStudd96]

This man lost his wife and 2 children. To go on after that takes almighty amount of courage. I have nothing but respect for him.

[@tarasdiary]

@@sdfghgtrew Ah yes, totally was money when Otto was planning to actually keep the diary private in the family till one of his friends convinced him it should be out there in the world.

[@camille71999]

​@@sdfghgtrewI'm sure he would have preferred having his family back rather than being left only with the diary of his youngest daughter who died in awful circumstances.

[@jmacjr101]

Especially after everything that they endured!!!

[@chiefswife1212]

You have no idea how he survived, he can read his murdered daughters words with zero emotion.

[@SR-iy4gg]

@@chiefswife1212 What are you trying to say?

[@tarasdiary]

Otto is the definition of a true father, he did everything he could to protect his family and do whatever it takes. It's so horrible that he ended up being the only survivor after all the effort he went through to keep them alive through hiding. It's no wonder Anne wrote so fondly of him, he seriously was the best father. Even after all this he did everything in his power to bring out Anne's diary to the world to let her legacy live on. This man will forever be a legend, and I hope now he's reunited with his family after he passed. God bless you, Otto.

[@carolynrandle5454]

I was🎉born in 1944 when world war was about over.i knew nothing about this but I wished I had read the book

[@annaaagpalsa]

❤❤❤

[@bronsonmejia1794]

Margot had a diary too.

[@lavoniaholloway1245]

@@bronsonmejia1794 she did but wasn’t it lost?

[@bronsonmejia1794]

@@lavoniaholloway1245 That makes sense. But Anne was the one otto spoiled.

[@lonniebishop9062]

Kudos to BBC Archive for preserving this powerful interview.

[@johntomlinson6849]

It was Biddy Baxter herself who demanded that thousands of BP editions weren't wiped.

[@292Nigel]

ההודעה הזו הייתה צריכה להישמר

[@apollomemories7399]

Both Valerie Singleton and Lesley Judd were excellent presenters. So much better than today's.

[@chrissandi9613]

@@292Nigel What on earth does this scribble signify?

[@TigerGuy052]

50 percent made-up, and 50 percent complete lie

[@onionbubs386]

I can see why Anne loved her father so much. His kind and gentle spirit is palpable, even after experiencing the most horrible nightmare imaginable. May his and his family's memories be a blessing.

[@MarkHarrison733]

He wrote her "diary" after the war.

[@onionbubs386]

@@MarkHarrison733 gargle my load

[@onionbubs386]

@@MarkHarrison733 gargle a fat load

[@gumshake689]

​@@MarkHarrison733the voices in your head aren't trustworthy sources

[@MarkHarrison733]

@@gumshake689 Otto Frank openly confirmed it.

[@livenhfree]

At 64, I have finally read the Diaries. They have had a profound impact on me. My heart goes out to this poor man, and of course to Anne. She was an exceptional young lady. Full of life, hope, positivity, and so mature for her age. And she did ultimately get her wish to be an influential writer. If only she knew. May she rest in peace. May the all rest in peace.

[@Jay-bi8vz]

Otto talking about Anne's diary: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4i1c5ykhZyUpNU

[@livenhfree]

@@aveline2446 While that's not the point, I'll bite. So who did? And can you share your evidence?

[@domeniclagana6660]

I read the Diary at age 11, it had a profound impact on me also I am now 66.

[@souchan6974]

I was 13 when I read her diary, I'm 19 now :)

[@justsayin5609]

She knows.

[@2000sayan]

Today is 30 Oct, 2022. Just yesterday, Anne's best friend Hannah died. 😥😥May be they are now together in heaven. Rest in peace Hannah Goslar. Prayers from India🇮🇳

[@2000sayan]

@@loughton57 yes...typo.. corrected

[@carolinegodden4364]

God Bless Hannah. Mat she rest in peace. Caroline x Australia 🇦🇺 STRAYA SOUTHERN Cross ➕ Southern HEMISPHERE

[@jj-if6it]

I didn't know that. Sad, but at least she got to live a full life

[@EmilyGloeggler7984]

Poor woman. I hope God lead her to the real truth before her death and saved her soul.

[@jj-if6it]

@@EmilyGloeggler7984 shut up, and go away

[@davedogge2280]

the stress of living indoors with fear of capture outside must have been horrendous. You rarely see strong, proud and decent people like Otto on TV these days, to have lost 2 daughters and a wife in concentration camps would have wrecked all the people I know for good.

[@alwa6954]

Yes. And having endured the concentration camp himself. It fills me with anger and resentment just to know that stuff happened never mind to have all those things happen directly to me as he did.

[@AaronTheGreat________]

I find it hard to imagine if you saw Otto or chatted to him without knowing beforehand you wouldn’t be able to tell what he went through ❤

[@maudeboggins9834]

Different times. Otto was not the only one to have lost an entire family. He was surrounded by similar stories unfortunately. A horrible time.

[@January.]

Absolutely agree 😢

[@January.]

@Ellie5621 *falling in love

[@slipnpitch1894]

As a father to 2 girls the eldest being 8 who keeps a diary this has reduced me to tears. I cant imagine the suffering during that time and for her father afterwards.

[@livenhfree]

Right there with you. I finally-- at 64-- read the Diaries. Devastating.

[@slipnpitch1894]

@@livenhfree I actually rewatched this yesterday and decided I must read the diary. I also wajt to visit the house In Amsterdam this year

[@livenhfree]

@@slipnpitch1894 I think you should read it. I was thinking I'd like to visit as well. But I couldn't walk in there. Definitely not worthy, and I don't feel it would be appropriate to walk through the same rooms she did. I feel it's sacred, in a way.

[@slipnpitch1894]

@@livenhfree yes thats definitely something to consider and I suspect I will reach that conclusion also after reading the diary.

[@Jay-bi8vz]

Otto talking about Anne's diary: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4i1c5ykhZyUpNU

[@mattgage377]

Reading this book is like going through a time portal she really documented life in that era so well.

[@rwwilson21]

what Anne really gave through her diary is perspective. And that's why I think it's an important WWII historical document.

[@carolinegodden4364]

@@rwwilson21 INDEED, she did. Plus CONTEXT, perhaps this is why her authentic writing FROM THE HEART ♥ SPEAKS TO THE HEART ♥ of all men, women and children, who read it... Many were PERSECUTED by the nazi regime. . invalids . the elderly . homosexuality . handicapped . teenagers . Russians . performer's A lot of Jewish people came to Australia, Melbourne has a large Jewish population. A lot of Nazi families came to Australia....... Crystal 🏙/The City of Churches ...... ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA 🇦🇺 STRAYA, has a large German population and a very dark undercurrent. I wonder how the Nazi population of Australia was IN JOY, during LOCK UP AUSTRALIA. Dreadful unsolved crimes in Adelaide....... I think it's about time, everyday people in Adelaide dobbed these people in.

[@jeffbuckleydisciple2013]

​@carolinegodden4364 Wow you bought the propaganda oy vey

[@dolinaj1]

Always a misogynist smarta*ss in any thread.

[@AndreaElizabeth100]

​@carolinegodden4364 Yes, it was totally horrific. Gypsies were persecuted too. Also, Jehovah's Witnesses and some Roman Catholics. Also, some Freemasons. Also, trade unionists. Also, some black people and mixed race. Also, people with mental illness and other disabilities. Also, some children and babies. Some Jewish Europeans left Europe for the USA and Israel. I didn't know about Australia.

[@vlinder6329]

The bookcase was made by JOHAN VOSKUIJL. He was the COUSIN of my Grandfather THEO VOSKUIJL. Johan Voskuijl's daughter, BEP VOSKUIJL, also worked there and spoke to Anne regularly. Bep Voskuijl was a second cousin of my Mother TINE VOSKUIJL. This Johan was very ill when he made this bookcase, Johan died a year later. Anne's Father was at his funeral. 😞 I still have many photos of the Frank Family. I will never forget this history ❤️ Love from the Netherlands 🇳🇱

[@tearbag]

Your cousins were so brave and have my utmost admiration. I can’t imagine the fear they lived with, yet still helped the 8 in the annex have over 2 more years together 🩷

[@56postoffice]

The father of Anne Frank in the BBC studios only 46 years ago. This is an important historical document.

[@mothermovementa]

Literally 💚

[@lavoniaholloway1245]

Not even just that. They listened to the BBC day in and day out on the radio when they were in Holland. For him to make it to the BBC himself, it’s almost like Anne’s soul is there in that annex, listening to her father on the radio like any other day. Just ready to scribble down in her diary how wonderful it must be to have such a father who cared so deeply for his family after so many years apart from them. If there’s an afterlife, they’re all there in their home together again. Whether that be the annex or the homes they lived in before the war, they’ve long embraced each other with their warmth

[@dannydougin3925]

An amazing man, Otto Frank, with an amazing daughter Anne. I am not ashamed to say as a young boy when I read the diary, that it touched me. I think of her often.

[@ur_local_nintendo_ds]

It still touches me..i feel so bad for them. And this is when it was pre arranged and provides a tiny look into the Jews lives

[@kevinprior3549]

Probably the most famous Jewish family ever.

[@da90sReAlvloc]

​@@kevinprior3549 yeah cause nobody heard of the Jewish family of Jesus Mary and Joseph have they ,

[@tanstoptips1376]

​@@da90sReAlvloc who?

[@zach177]

@@kevinprior3549 I don’t know about the most famous ever but they are definitely pretty famous!

[@keelyjwant3382]

When children's television was at its best. Lesley Judd was so honoured to have met Otto Frank. So sad that these kinds of programs are no longer made.

[@Robyn-by6qt]

The 70's was a great era for quality children's t.v in both Britain BBC and Australia ABC. Both stations produced and created some iconic T,V viewing for children back then. Unlike much of the poor ,lazy and cheap fodder kids are fed now sadly.

[@K-a-n-d-i-s]

KZbin is the replacement

[@emikiwi]

As a teenage girl reading her diary 50 years after it was written, it moved me very much but also seemed in the far distant past. Strange how as you get older, the past somehow seems closer. Seeing her father "in living colour" like this on TV just six years before I was born, it hits home just how recently these horrors occurred. "The past is never dead. It's not even past." - William Faulkner

[@nk8721]

So so true!

[@mariabrch8760]

Do you know from which book is that phrase of W.Faulkner's; I've read the "Sound and Fury",but i don't remember that quote. So thought provoking & true in its essence....

[@emalynicole1006]

I feel the same, I was born in 1984.. I read the diary in 1995 and it seemed like a very distant impossible past.

[@williamneale7238]

Only Blue Peter could do something like this. Nothing glossed over, telling it completely straight to the audience.

[@jomac2046]

Aimed at a youth audience as well.

[@Mike-gd4zd]

Now the state of blue Peter today…

[@stuartrussell3490]

The only other moment like this occurred when Nicholas Winton a British businessman who used his own money and time to get Jewish children out of Czechoslovakia before the borders closed happened in 1988 on a British consumer program called that's life. When a survivors story was told in a live audience. The presenter said "I can tell you the man sitting next to you is Nicholas Winton" and then after stating "is there anyone else in the audience who owes their life to Nicolas Winton" many survivors then adults were all sat behind and stood up. Winton who was unaware his story was part of the program tended to be moved by the moment. Still up on you tube

[@annemadison7258]

@@Mike-gd4zd So you hate Blue Petter because most of the presenters are anti Fascists

[@BeckBeckGo]

She talks over him though.

[@junaidtipu7340]

What an absolutely noble, strong, patient and just such a powerful man. As a father, I struggle to read the diaries, though I have bought my daughter the book. How Mr Frank showed strength through such rerrible grief is just beyond me. God bless him and his family and may they all RIP

[@Jay-bi8vz]

Otto talking about Anne's diary: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4i1c5ykhZyUpNU

[@vanessamorenorosales1786]

The fact that the horrible events in Ann's life ONLY had happened 30 years before this interview is unreal. These horrific events really aren't that far away. I am seeing an interview in COLOR of Mr. Frank a man that lived thru such horrors.

[@57andstillkicking]

We must never forget.

[@TheJonathanNewton]

Learning Dutch, I thought I’d start with Dutch literature by reading Anne Frank’s Diary. A classic, that might be easily accessible to a learner of the language, I thought, since it was penned by a young teenager? How very wrong I was about the latter. Her writing is brilliant, flourishing, imaginative, eloquent, blossoming to the point where I had to give up until I’d learned more Dutch so that I could follow it. Anne Frank wasn’t only a gifted teenage diary writer who happened to be published because of her fate. Anne Frank was a gifted *writer*, in her own right, and would have been able to become a successful author had her life not been so brutally ended by the fanatical hate that drove the Nazis to continue their war on the Jews even as the Allied forces were literally on their doorstep. I say this as a writer myself, a journalist since 30+ years. The world truly lost a great contributor to literature and culture by her death. How I wonder what she would have become had she been allowed to enjoy her right to life.

[@jj-if6it]

Can I ask why you're learning Dutch? I'm half Dutch myself and my one regret in life is not being fluent, as I grew up speaking English at home, but still surrounded by it. But unlike other languages, Dutch is kinda useless, it's spoken in very few places and everyone speaks English there anyway. What are your thoughts?

[@user-qu1yp8bh8c]

​@@jj-if6it Yeah if you would go to the Netherlands most people would be able to speak English, but without speaking Dutch you'll never fully understand everything that's going on around you. In my experience, understanding a culture and becoming part of a society is not possible if you don't know the local language. Also, locals treat you differently (better) when they hear you speaking their language. As for Dutch it might not be spoken by billions but knowing Dutch makes it also easier to understand Afrikaans, German, Swedish, Norwegian and Danish :) And I think that it's in general nice to be able to speak at least more than one language, especially when your first one is English. But that's my experience and opinion, you might have another view on it :)

[@xragdoll5662]

@@jj-if6itwhenever I plan on visiting a country that isn’t my native tongue, I always study the language for a few months even though they might speak English, I just think it’s polite but that’s just me 😊

[@jj-if6it]

@@xragdoll5662 I've been to 25 different countries, I learn basics like hello and thank you but that's it. I studied french and Italian for four years but have forgotten most of it!

[@jj-if6it]

@@user-qu1yp8bh8c I would love to speak my mother's native tongue but it's hard for me. When I go to Holland I say things like thank you in Dutch and people appreciate it. They think I'm dutch anyway because I'm very tall and fair, so people are nice to me and sometimes try to speak Dutch to me haha. It's a shame but I think I'm too old to learn a language I would hardly ever use or have a chance to practise

[@abidinginchrist3139]

She named her diary Kitty. She used to write as if she was writing A letter to her friend. I always thought that was sweet.

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hello how are you doing?

[@kathrynkildow3743]

How blessed Margot and Anne were to have such a kind, wonderful father! I imagine their mother was the same. I read Anne's diary in junior high. I want to read it again. My mother and I visited their hiding place. I used to think, "What a shame she didn't get the chance to be a great writer." One day it dawned on me, she IS a great writer! After she passed on, she became world-famous and highly influential, contributing greatly to mankind. ❤

[@Govindaclass]

Actually Anne says in her diary that she hated her mother and she never understood her. She has very strongly articulated this throughout her diary. However, she may have been just a normal anxious nagging mother for any teenage girl under normal circumstances. When you are cooped up with other people 24/7, even if it’s one’s own family, with no one or no outside place to vent your frustrations, emotions are bound to turn ugly, especially for a teenager. So i guess she may have been a normal caring mother despite how Anne portrays her as a heartless unempathetic character. Though there is no way to know for sure because it is just from Anne’s perspective, i am willing to give both of them benefit of the doubt because of the unusual circumstances!

[@chetyoubetya8565]

Her father left out many disparaging things she wrote about her mother and the others she lived with.There is a unedited version which makes her even more human.

[@cherrytraveller5915]

@@Govindaclass be honest who hasn’t a times thought that one of your parents was the enemy and you hated them. Especially during the teenage years when you’re parents are desperately trying to keep you in line. It is only with the benefit of hindsight once you’re an adult that you can see your parents meant well they just made mistakes. Anne and her mother were probably so much alike that they naturally butted heads. Bit like my mother and I. I had days I couldn’t stand the sight of her in my teens and I would write nasty stuff about her. The other thing you have to keep in mind is that a diary isn’t going to judge you. You can write all sorts of mean things and it won’t judge you for it. It is a healthy way to vent as well anyway as it stops you from saying it out loud. I imagine her mother was a nag and Anne didn’t have the patience to deal with it. Given the circumstances it was a stressful at best.

[@tarasdiary]

@@Govindaclass I don't think Anne's mother was bad, she seemed genuine and wanted the same for Anne like Otto did. I think Anne just had a really tough bond with her due to her teenage hormones and other personal reasons, plus it's really normal for mothers and daughters to really get on each other's nerves during that time period. It was pointed out later though as Anne got older she was starting to get along with her mother better, so I am more convinced it was due to Anne growing up. She had ups and downs with the other adults too, Anne was just a teenager who was dealing with a lot mentally while growing up and felt alone - while her mother tried to also support her, Anne took it more in a harsher way than Edith meant it. Otto seemed to have been the softer parent and was Good Cop hence why Anne got along with him better.

[@journeylvr]

Amazingly, the book was on a banned book table at Barnes and Noble today. I read it repeatedly as a schoolgirl!!

[@a_leaf]

It's very strange to see Otto Frank speak so professionally about an atrocity he personally experienced in an environment of brutal racism as if it was a cake walk for him. People were stoich those days but this man really is made of steel. I am in awe how his sanity is still in tact and he can sit through an interview. Even if it was 30 yrs ago for him, still it appears he does not have anger of bitterness in his heart.

[@Jay-bi8vz]

Otto talking more about Anne's diary: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4i1c5ykhZyUpNU

[@arizonaskies6607]

And yet he never spoke about the suffering he endured in the concentration camp, only about Anne's diary and her legacy. A truly selfless and noble man.

[@a_leaf]

@@arizonaskies6607 yes indeed

[@arizonaskies6607]

@@Jay-bi8vz Thank you. Enjoyed watching the video of a much younger Otto Frank speaking about his daughter Anne.

[@generalj216]

Or perhaps there really is something to the ballpoint pen theory

[@barkingtree88]

What breaks my heart the most about this story is how loveable and funny Anne really seemed to be as a person! In life she was denied the ability to live and see what amazing things she did for the world; and if she was still among us today, she would probably still be blessing us with her writings.

[@MarkHarrison733]

Her father wrote the "diary" after the war.

[@SR-iy4gg]

@@MarkHarrison733 Lies

[@TheresaGraf]

@@SR-iy4gg Nope, he's partially accurate. Meyer Levin wrote the polished copy and had to sue Otto for the money promised. Meyer got $50K for his efforts.

[@judithhickey6936]

No !!!. Anne wrote that diary!!!. Sick to constantly hear so called individuals disclaim or say the Holocaust never happened. It's sick and disgusting! . Not too mention insulting the 6 million that were murdered !!!!.

[@hilaryepstein6013]

What a clever girl Anne Frank was. One wonders what she would have done with her life had she not been murdered. A tragic loss, as they all were.

[@philipchurchill6508]

Lets hope she would have stayed in the Netherlands

[@F5_cena]

Wanted to be an actress like Jennifer tilly

[@krashd]

She wasn't murdered, at least not directly, she died of typhus before she could be taken to the gas chambers but she's still a victim of the Nazis so it's pretty much the same thing.

[@CadeD679]

Have you ever read Tales from the Annex? It is a collection of stories and essays and other things that Anne Frank wrote while in hiding. She had a real talent. If she has lived, maybe she would have pursued writing.

[@siobhancosgrove7277]

Anne Frank died of Typhus in the concentration camp Bergen-Belsen

[@slrs8777]

Wow this is the first time I’ve seen her father being interviewed and didn’t even know video interviews of him existed. Truly amazing and he seems like such a sweet man. I’m glad Anne’s diary helped changed lives and gave him daily inspiration as well.

[@TheAllyMor]

Wow, what a moving, poignant and respectful interview by Lesley Judd.

[@TheJonathanNewton]

Indeed it was. Indeed.

[@julianorchard6129]

💯

[@32446]

This man experienced 2 horrors of the 20th century- Trench warfare in WW1 and the holocaust. I read his biography and was impressed at his noble character and his resilience to carry on despite his utter desolation and the horrors he had witnessed.

[@cactusbuds2979]

The grief he must have felt for Anne, Margo and his wife must have been tremendous. His strength is very admirable

[@pumpkensdiapers1417]

Anne, Girl, if ONLY you knew the IMPACT you’ve had on SO MANY young girls! I read her diaries in class, around the same age as she, and the horror, compassion, and vividness I could feel for AND with Anne. You’ve got your wish, babe! We will NEVER forget you, sweetheart. 🙏🏻❤️💐💐💐

[@JonathanReynolds1]

When Matt Lucas appeared on “Who Do You Think You Are?” he found out one of his relatives was a lodger in the Frank family’s house and was mentioned in Anne’s diary.

[@SaltySteff]

Otto loved his little girls so much. And his beloved wife. The man lost his entire family. I can't imagine how much that destroyed him.

[@larissap6586]

I’m born in the 70’s in Canada and the Diary of Ann Frank was required reading. In the early 2000’s I had the opportunity to visit the attic and it was one of the most profound and memorable experiences I have ever had. Gratitude to Mr. Otto for sharing this tragically won gift with the world and may we never forget.

[@WenD1908]

I’m so glad Mr. Frank agreed to the interview. He is such an amazing and inspirational person. To go on despite losing his family and for a time his freedom is superhuman. Bless him for sharing Anne Frank with the rest of us to celebrate her life and legacy.

[@girlonabookshelf4922]

Hearing Otto speak about his daughter, hearing the love and adoration absolutely breaks my heart, he lost his whole family in the most horrific of ways, I’m so glad he was able to find peace and happiness again ♥️♥️♥️

[@callum110597]

Nearly 80 years on, and we'll always remember Anne Frank and the memories she had. Otto should be proud to this day. 🙂😇🤝

[@SR-iy4gg]

He can't be. He's dead.

[@callum110597]

Right, I remember. But back when he was alive and up in heaven.

[@maryblaufuss7533]

@@SR-iy4gg Sometimes it behooves a person to refrain from being quite so literal.

[@chantalsscaleisafibber]

Mr Frank was such a lovely gentleman.After all he lived through with the camps and losing his family.The anger and hatred you would think he would have doesn't seem to be there. May all the victims rest in peace.

[@moominmay]

What a lovely last Q to ask of Otto whether finding Anne’s diary personally gave him inspiration and courage to overcome his ordeal 🤍

[@depniff]

Thank you BBC Archive. Hearing the story set out in a simple Blue Peter way and then the interview with Otto Frank are both more revealing than many documentaries

[@fidelcatsro6948]

yes i didnt expect to see an interview of her father, afterall he was already 87 by this time..ironically by the time he turned 130, the world would see Corona Virus attacks all over the world 🤔

[@PjD-pk1fg]

It was made when the BBC was making great programs. Blue Peter didn't treat it's audience as kids. Great archive footage.

[@carolinegodden4364]

@@fidelcatsro6948 Indeed, with THE LONGEST LOCK UP worldwide, being EPICENTRE MELBOURNE VICTORIA AUSTRALIA 🌏 Funny that!!!

I think dear Anne is the exact symbol of freedom, love and peace.

[@fidelcatsro6948]

Otto Frank was already 87 by time of this interview. He died in 1980 aged 91 Queen Elizabeth born 1926 Anne Frank born 1929 My Grandma born in 1928 she is 94yrs old this year🐱👍🏿

[@philipchurchill6508]

What has Queen Elizabeth got to do with this ? the bit about your grandma is fair Enough though as they were practically the same age

[@katvtay]

@@philipchurchill6508 I’m more concerned they chose the name Fidel Castro as their YT name. Perhaps with this being from the BBC, and with Queen Elizabeth’s passing, they’re just putting into perspective that Anne Frank, several years younger, could still be here had she not been one of the many victims of these atrocities. ETA: They also show the photo of Elizabeth as a child that Anne hung up on the wall. Makes mentioning Elizabeth in the OP even more relevant.

[@philipchurchill6508]

Fidel Castro ? who gave his people decent healthcare , free education ect. ? you compare his regime to others of latin america ? compare the living standard of his country to that of others in Latin America ,yes there was no democracy , [ at a time when the USA were pouring lots of money to destroy the chances of socialists who WERE democratic ,chile , guatamala ] ,for nearly all of the time of his leadership his country was illegaly blockaded by the USA , had cuba been a democracy ,there is no way on this earth that the social benefits would have continued , no he wasn1t a saint , but I have some respect for this man , as I do not swallow all the crap about him being the worst dictator n` all as you have no doubt !

[@philipchurchill6508]

@UCkR3-yc1fBvzsLmsvRRXl6w Are you insane ? your having a go at me for changing the topic at hand ? , did you not say and I quote "I am more concerned that they used Fidel Castro as a YT title " clearly you have zero clue how to engage in even the most simple argument if you get bogged down at such an early stage with such basic technicalities , very , very stupid reply and ironic as it was you who in fact were guilty of the charge you tried too pin on me ! tell me then how I have got this wrong ? I would so much love to hear that fella !

[@philipchurchill6508]

@UCkR3-yc1fBvzsLmsvRRXl6w Are you insane ? your having a go at me for changing the topic at hand , it was in fact You who did this ,and I quote "I am more concerned that they used Fidel Castro as a yt title " , clearly you have zero clue how to engage in even the most simple argument if you get bogged down at such an early stage with such basic technicalities , very ,very stupid reply and ironic as it was you who were in fact guilty of the charge you tried to pin on me , tell me how I am wrong on this , I would love to hear that fella !

[@concerned1144]

Still breaks my heart when I hear this story. How humans can be so vicious to one another. May Anne and all who died have peace.

[@marcot8799]

Every child should read Anne Frank's Diary.

[@AvecPoesie]

Absolutely...I came from a schooling system where we were not required to read the book. They only showed us the Black and White film. I read the Diary in my twenties! I wish I had read it at a younger age.

[@Jay-bi8vz]

I would recommend teenagers/young adults, not children. It’s too serious, and it’ll be appreciated a lot more then I feel

[@sanderdeboer6034]

WOW, I have been to the ‘Achterhuis’ many times, and obviously have read the diary several times. I haven’t seen a proper interview like this with Otto before. I often walk or cycle past the house on the Prinsengracht and every single time I have to think of Anne and her family. And also think of the amazing helpers, especially Miep Gies. To be honest helped by the long queue of people visiting the house. Great to have seen this video.

[@grubbilove6338]

Wow so awesome of you.

[@RogueCylon]

Blue Peter was such a good program as a kid growing up.

[@charlescharliecharlotte]

I read Anne Franks diary in 3rd grade and it made an lasting impression on my life. Everyone should read it.

[@platome4795]

I just visited the Anne Frank House and was deeply moved learning of the plight of her family and so many Jews. I almost could not breathe standing in her room, where she hid for 2 years. May she rest in peace ❤

[@berniethebolt3007]

Television for children doesn't get any better or more important than this.

[@safayatkhan2280]

Wow, the torture of outliving both your daughters and wife is something no man should have to go through, what a strong man.

[@khfan4life365]

For a girl of 13-15, she had great penmanship. I can’t understand the Dutch text, but I can see that she had better penmanship than most adults I know.

[@LilyGazou]

Cursive writing isn’t being taught anymore. It’s sad because it cuts people off from the past. Cursive has been shown to be helpful in brain development. It’s worth looking into it. And writing notes by hand helps people retain knowledge better than typing.

[@cynthianolder3557]

I read the diary, & yes, she did

[@maryblaufuss7533]

There is that. I read her diary as a middle school project when I was around her age and it occurred to me that Anne appeared more articulate, more sophisticated, and better educated than I was. I wondered why. Were European schools better than American ones? Then there's the matter of Anne's innate talent.

[@khfan4life365]

@@maryblaufuss7533schools in general had higher standards back then, even American schools. I’ve looked at old American textbooks from the 20s and 30s and middle schoolers were learning what high schoolers are learning now.

[@maryblaufuss7533]

@@khfan4life365 Because I usually think so too, I was shocked when a friend of mine told me that her 12 year-old, sixth grade remedial math level daughter was obliged to study geometry and trigonometry. WTF!!!

[@ThePaleBlueDot]

I remember watching this programme when it was broadcast on the BBC. I was a month short of my 11th birthday and at school in London. I was moved by it then. Now, after all those years, and at the age of 57, I am still deeply and profoundly moved by it.

[@gillrobertson4772]

I remember it too I remembered it quite clearly but didn’t realize I was only seven.

[@hibamishal540]

In spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart Anne Frank

[@billywhyte6693]

Isnt Otto just lovely.

[@ebonysmith1493]

He was so strong to still be standing after all he endured. I read her diary in school and was depressed for an entire week. It makes me so emotional to see this. This is why we must remember this atrocity so we don't keep repeating it ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@sunnydayzie1202]

What awful grief and trauma this man endured in losing all his family and friends, plus his own trauma in the camp. This is what courage and love look like. He returned and was somehow able to continue on , and publish her work etc. He seems such a gentle and well spoken man. No wonder Anne loved him so

[@mehmetdurmaz8959]

Her typ of writing was iconic.

[@robindew9072]

How touching and moving. So thoughtful. Otto was a very strong man. What torment he had to endure after it all. How he went on without his wife and daughters. Letting the world 🌎 know about her diary and read it. How brave. Anne Frank was an amazing girl. She had inner strength.

[@thenanlife1141]

It must have been so very hard for Anne’s father to speak about his daughters diary .. So much love to this lovely man ❤❤❤

[@AaronTheGreat________]

Otto seemed like he was a great father ❤

[@saraschneider6781]

Anne loved him so much. She didn't get along with her mother.

[@Urcinamongurl]

@@saraschneider6781 doesn’t mean she didn’t love her

[@LeviMatteo]

Charming man, loving father. Anna adored and admired him, and so do I

[@clipstone]

Lesly Judd was so delightful. She made an appearance at our local town hall at about this time. I went along after school. It was very exciting.

[@roswithamoldenhauer7780]

When I was 14 I received this book from my parents as a Christmas present in 1958 I also started a diary and also addressed it to ‘ dear Kitty ‘ like Anna did .

[@kateramsay8462]

He’s a rare jem . Very rare to come by

[@saintdenis3238]

Otto died in 1980 glad he did this interview

[@jjf8862]

Mr. Frank was so brilliant and classy, what a polished man, a gentlemen. Thank you for sharing your daughter’s diary sir. May you RIP with your family members.

[@MrBrianNZ]

I first saw this interview with Mr Frank as a 16 year old in 1976. He struck me then as being a very special man. His dignity, his strength & his love stayed with me and remains to this day as does the interviews with Miep Gies, Mr Frank's Secretary that helped hide & care for those in the attic for so long. Noble & very special people..

[@knockshinnoch1950]

This is one of those interviews that stuck with me as a kid. I can remember it as though it was yesterday. Another such interview on Blue Peter happened that same year on the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of the Little Big Horn a Native American man who witnessed the battle appeared on the programme. Incredible to think that the past is actually just within touching distance.

[@gforceeatingcorrect]

What an Intelligent, Classy,docile ,sweet man ……….. for all that happened….. we will NEVER forget…….

[@mjspice100]

I remember seeing this at the time, from memory he was presented with a gold Blue Peter badge at the end of the interview..

[@crimsonmckenzie98]

Wow... What an amazing girl, with an equally amazing father. ❤

[@jj-if6it]

This video is so special. I don't know if I've ever heard him speak before. What a strong and kind man

[@manjitkaur2682]

God bless Otto Frank...he was honestly an amazing man of his time and what he did for the most for his family and children. So so so resilient and highly respected. Just by his humble and kind personality, I can only imagine just how great his children were. Anne is an amazing, smart and talented individual. I am so pleased that she lives on as hope in so many people's lives. Just spectacular 💐🌹🌺🌷🪷🌺🪻🌼🥀🌸🌻💐

[@dearestdrew]

oh he is just so lovely. it is so evident why Anne wrote so fondly of 'Pim'. very bittersweet to hear him say that he only truly came to know his daughter after her death, through her diary. such a wonderful family who did not deserve such tragedy.

[@j.a.l.m.8388]

What a honour ❤… I was 7 years old when I read it in Portuguese. My first book

[@alwa6954]

What a beautiful interview. Very moving to hear Mr. Frank speak about his amazing daughter and her diary.

[@Jay-bi8vz]

Otto talking more about Anne's diary: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4i1c5ykhZyUpNU

[@alwa6954]

@@Jay-bi8vz Thank you.

[@katieamarshh]

I just went to the Anne Frank museum this past week! This place is so small, it is astonishing that they all lived in there.

[@MarkHarrison733]

It was a hoax.

[@AshRecordReview]

@@MarkHarrison733???

[@MarkHarrison733]

@@AshRecordReview Franco told the truth about it in 1945.

[@chelee8804]

Anne’s legacy became his mission. What a beautiful thing to share something so personal & precious with the world. I’m glad he got to see the diary’s impact.

[@tabularasa2015]

Beautiful man.

[@wilkinson8707]

What an incredible piece of history

[@michaelleonardis1540]

I also did a report in the 6th grade, as I was reading it I began to cry , my mother came in the room and asked , what's wrong why do you cry, I showed her the book, she had never read the book , however when I told her what it was about she helped me finish the report. My mom also cried. R.I.P. mom

[@libertyann439]

What an incredible interview 👏

[@Nicole-zr1me]

This interview is such a gem

[@carriebizz]

This is amazing footage. I'm Australian and I was born in 1977 a year after this aired, but I've never seen this. I've read her book. So heartbreaking

[@alanknotts1844]

I remember watching this at the time, powerful stuff to a child

[@janeaparis]

This is so wonderful, that her charm, story, and essence got to live on.

[@leannsherman6723]

Beautiful. So grateful that I stumbled upon this priceless interview.

[@Ali74]

What a wonderful piece by Blue Peter. Amazing to see the diary and hear from her father.

[@gemstone1804]

It’s such a privilege to see this video and see the annex before it was turned into a museum

[@Totek6]

I have never read Anne's diaries, but, that first line Otto read, knowing she was 13 when she wrote that amazes me. She was very intelligent and I feel so sorry for what happened to them.

[@peteterry2877]

I've not seen this for nearly 50 years. Thank you BBC.

[@julierogers1155]

Very moving. Thank you.

[@redtomcat1725]

Wonderful interview !!

[@monnie651]

He is such a gentleman

[@SuperSara924]

Just from reading Anne’s diary she was such an intelligent, well spoken young girl with a beautiful soul, Otto and Edith were raising lovely young women. It’s heartbreaking to think of how one evil men and his power took that all away from him. He is the true definition of a father and man keeping her legacy alive. I hope he’s at peace reunited with his wife and daughters

[@trevorlack6565]

I have very vivid memories of watching this

[@ladymallowyt]

What an amazing piece of history. Well done to the bbc for keeping this interview safe and posting it on yt. Otto Frank passed away four years after this interview took place

[@Stunter378]

I remember watching this program all those years ago, and am pleased to see it still shown today, thank you

[@rodgreen6021]

I was fortunate to visit the annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during the war .A sureal and very sobering experience. That was 40 years ago .I will never forget it for the rest of my life . To the Frank family ,my utmost respect .Rest in peace.❤

[@jimmymcgee4101]

The diary of Anne Frank was the first book I ever completed, it was Anne that gave me the bravery to admit to my English class that I never finished a book, the teacher made me read the book for 10 minutes at the beginning of the class, as I closed the book, I looked up and my entire class clapped for me. I vowed never to forget Anne, and I never have.

[@FredPickett]

What a heart touching story.

[@ilovelauragrant]

Bless him, what a brave and courageous daughter he had, and what a kind and loving father