The BBC's apology to JK Rowling (and the future of Doctor Who coverage on this channel)

The BBC has issued an apology for not defending JK Rowling from "baseless accusations" of transphobia after an orchestrated complaint letter campaign from several noted "gender critical" groups in the UK. And I'd really really love to be done with this organization right now, because Doctor Who remains the backbone of this channel and I don't really know how I feel about that right now.
I reference the following (highly recommended) video by Jessie Gender if you want a more thorough breakdown of Rowling specifically: • Explaining JK Rowling’...
0:00 - Rowling gets an apology
4:33 - BBC's transphobic history
9:10 - BBC & Doctor Who
13:19 - My financial reality
18:16 - No ethical consumption
20:40 - I don't have answers
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[@CouncilofGeeks]

My video on the issue of the BBC's support of Transphobia: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3-XppZmfb-ljac My video on the BBC's response to complaints of its reporting: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZzLaWSEatGWj7s My short on why I'll continue to put up the note at the front of these: kzbin.infoHpwwzjzFXiE Shaun's 1st video, which includes some additional confirmed information: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGXFpn2Dgs6qmck Shaun’s 2nd video, which follows how the BBC is trying to dodge accountability for all of this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5fNhXpsiLudo7M Shaun’s 3rd video, following him escalating his complaints: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIPRYoiQacubmqc Shaun's 4th video, covering the BBC's response: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXeaeIpth9RnhbM Laura Kate Dale's protest speech outside the BBC offices: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnPNeKGNoNx0oKs

[@SuperPoodleboy]

Your Dr Who content brought me here and led to me learning more about transphobic issues as well as enjoying your content. While much loved franchises may have transphobic corporations and individuals connected with their creation, the content derived from those franchises has the power to raise awareness and attempt to combat those issues. You (and your content) are beautiful, valid, and loved. We may be the council but you are the reason this council exists in the first place.

[@MrTARDIS]

As a media freelancer in the UK who frequently works for the BBC, it's been really interesting watching this conversation happening internally with other freelancers and contracted staff at the BBC. Basically, the vast majority of people working at other BBC departments are looking at the News & Current Affairs division (the one responsible for the journalistic output and easily where most of their reactionary and bigoted output comes from, including the response at the heart of this video) and wondering "What the hell is going on over there?". Almost every other BBC department is completely baffled at the News and Current Affairs division and do not feel represented by that branch of the company which seems to be doing everything in its power to throw marginalized groups under the bus to appease our far-right Conservative government (even though that same government have vocally talked about shutting the BBC down because it employs and platforms too many PoC, LGBTQ+ people etc). I have a BBC e-mail address so I was one of the people who received the e-mail saying that I wasn't allowed to attend Pride Parades. I know that the internal blowback from employees working at the BBC was massive, to the extent where they had to do a faux-backtrack and claim "We never said our employees couldn't attend Pride"...even though everyone with a BBC e-mail received an e-mail saying *exactly that*.

[@johnvinals7423]

It’s like how all the Disney Creatives pushed back against Chapek so hard it cost him his job.

[@HeidiSholl]

The fact that they think they can stop you from going to Pride events, is astonishing! No company, no employer should have the power to do that. I'm a freelance prop maker in the UK, and the changes of me working for the BBC at some point in what I hope will be a 50 year long career are not at all slim, but if I ever received an email like that I would hit the roof! We're supposed to be one of the most accepting industries, and yet...

[@lucando13]

Even just regarding labour-laws: I'm not versed in the situation in the UK but I bet it's not legal for an employer to decide what the employees do in their free time ???

[@skywise001]

*Hug* Dont be gaslit.

[@etherealtb6021]

Thanks for your input, because ,"The Beeb" was always been infamous for being neutral, not making anyone happy. Such a shame. It is none of their f-ing business what staff does in their personal time! A**hats!

[@gozerthegozarian9500]

* long unbroken stream of screamed obsceneties *

[@mr.monster91666]

The BBC shielded Jimmy Savile until after his death so this doesn't surprise me

[@angelaholmes8888]

Yeah I'm not surprised about this

[@zeroranger7200]

THIS!!!

[@theaureliasys6362]

Ah. So they *can* respond quickly. Proves the mistreatment of trans people intentional.

[@tabbymoonshine5986]

When the person leading the BBC was essentially hand picked by Boris,and who donated 800k to Boris what do we expect. They are all corrupt to the core and deeply conservative

[@quinndawsonosgood5261]

Was there any doubt?

[@lyricbot8513]

@@quinndawsonosgood5261 it's good to have evidence I guess. Helps when they start gaslighting

[@quinndawsonosgood5261]

@@lyricbot8513 indeed.

[@GamerWho]

The reactionaries are already calling for an end to the licence fee. They cannot be seen to be pandering to the left. Especially since one of Sunak's original PM pledges was to put an end to wokisms. That Wallace-and-Gromit-looking mafk

[@DigiRangerScott]

That’s an apology in the very wrong direction

[@aran9952]

I saw the thumbnail and was slightly hopeful, then I read the title and all hopes were crushed and replaced with increased annoyance.

[@angelaholmes8888]

Yeah the apology is totally in the wrong direction

[@Alias_Anybody]

It's the same as with racism - sure there are unfair or false accusations here and there and people have the right to argue for their case. But if there's consistantly more outrage about being accused of an -ism than doing said -ism the society in question has a major issue.

[@lcflngn]

@@Alias_Anybody Well said

[@french.toastman]

She's threatening lawsuits. That's why. She's a filthbeast.

[@samuelbarber6177]

The words “But then there’s the BBC.” Rarely seem to follow or precede something good.

[@gozerthegozarian9500]

I want a damn apology from the damn BBC for not pushing back against transphobic propaganda and fearmongering and for indulging the rank dishonesty of the GC movement.

[@Gloomdrake]

At this point we're gonna have to assume that the organization is transphobic from the top-down

[@gozerthegozarian9500]

@@Gloomdrake I'm afraid you're right. Transphobia has infested UK media like the frikking cordyceps in The Last Of Us.

[@joh2434]

Most of the organisation is beyond redemption. Like the whole structure of the U.K. it needs to be dismantled and rebuilt from the ground up

[@joh2434]

@@falconeshield Oh sorry, as a random British citizen living in England I didn't realise that Scotland's independence was totally within my control! 🙄 I fully support Scottish independence btw (and once I've been thru uni again to qualify as a nurse it's somewhere I might want to live). Maybe engage your brain before making snotty comments to people.

[@thejuiceking2219]

@@falconeshield we all saw how brexit went down, you really think that would be any better?

[@Gloomdrake]

"baseless" At this point the ignorance is willful

[@aran9952]

I know right? How anyone can still believe that there is no base in those accusations is completely beyond me.

[@tysondennis1016]

It's called ignorance.

[@christianwise637]

Even my mother, who isn't on social media and isn't totally up to date with social justice issues, is fully aware of Rowling's transphobia and understands how her comments are harmful. We're well past the point where she can claim plausible deniability, you literally have to have been living under a rock for the last three years to not realise that she is a transphobe

[@tysondennis1016]

The second you defend yourself from someone, you're labelled as "obsessed", when all you want is to be left alone. That's frustrating.

[@Drilling249]

Can't we also apply this logic to other areas? for example, if you buy hogwarts legacy are you really a transphobe? or do you just wanna play a fucking video game based in a world you grew about reading about?

[@tysondennis1016]

@@Drilling249 I don’t think you are by necessity, but you are supporting transphobia if you buy the game.

[@tysondennis1016]

@@christopherjohnson9167 It's been years since she started tweeting about trans people. You have to be delusional and/or in line with her ideologies to giver her the benefit of the doubt. She got away for so long because she's a master dogwhistler.

[@tysondennis1016]

@sean smyth I know

[@ojigbo]

​@@christopherjohnson9167 In what way is JK not transphobic? I'm genuinely curious.

[@Frahamen]

it doesn't make you hypocritical, it makes the situation utterly tragic.

[@CorwinFound]

I think there is a tough line for all trans and other queer people where sometimes we are talking harm reduction. Dr. Who and its creators are very trans supportive and including trans people in the production. Sometimes we have to take the small "w" and make sure to avoid the unequivocal bad actors like Rowling.

[@MCMIVC]

BBC stoops to another low... Didn't think they could, but alas....

[@butterflypooo]

But … JK literally calls herself a TERF. She said “Happy TERFmas” around the holidays. She is admitting it at this point. 🤦🏻

[@Deathlygunn]

She compared being a Terf to being one of the Suffragettes the other day - She's not just admitting it, she's downright proud of it.

[@butterflypooo]

@@Deathlygunn Yeah. We’re all so tired of it.

[@WiloPolis03]

It might have been meant """"""""ironically"""""""" but we all know how useless that term gets :P

[@butterflypooo]

@@WiloPolis03 a person who literally believes that all trans women are rapists “ironically” calling themselves a TERF? 🙄 I guess anyone can say anything and then just be like “no, I’m not racist/sexist/ableist” and that’s all we need to know. Case closed. Phew, that was a tough one.

[@WiloPolis03]

@@butterflypooo Oh for sure, not to sound like a debate bro but reactionaries do that all the time online. Gaslight your reactionary tendencies into being just a joke/meme, and when anyone calls you out on it accuse them of being oversensitive

[@LucienDraculea]

Sending lots of love to you, Vera. Thank you for being an important voice of the queer community. Being queer / trans has been harder than ever the last few weeks, and content creators like you and Jessie get so much hate for speaking up and out for us..... It breaks my heart seeing and reading how worn out everybody is

[@littlewyzard]

our pfps are from the same picrew :)

[@lcflngn]

Dang that was well said. Ty! Love from an ally.

[@evanlinden4410]

I’m an enby, and the fact that you made a video like this is exactly why I will keep watching your DW content Aunt Vera lets me know we’re going to be okay Also I didn’t know you were a mom!

[@margaretmadole]

Actually, Vera generally calls themselves a dad/a father. To paraphrase her, even though they've transitioned, she still fathered her and has the role of a father in her life. No way you would have known that, of course, but I just figured you might want to know. Also I found it funny that my immediate reaction to your comment was "what? They aren't a mom?" despite me knowing that she has a kid, and knowing that it makes sense people would assume mom is the right term, because apparently in my brain it is very ingrained that no, they're a father

[@evanlinden4410]

@@margaretmadole Thanks for letting me know! I know some trans-parents (heh, pun) keep their titles from pre transition and some don’t, and given the content of the video and knowing their pronouns, I assumed

[@annaosterman7734]

You're not a hypocrite. This is why I'm a subscriber of this channel, to hear your well researched and nuanced thoughts on things. I still consider your video when you announced that you would no longer cover HP content to be one of the strongest videos I have seen. You are brilliant. You're important. You are loved.

[@johnvinals7423]

She could have just shut up and counted her royalties, letting everyone continue to enjoy the series. I mean, Dickens literally admitted he was wrong to write Fagin as a Jewish caricature back in 1839 after people called him out on it.

[@friendlyotaku9525]

Exactly, she could've just sat on her throne and remained a beloved author forever but instead she decided to open her yap and attack a marginalised community, rather than you know... using her money for GOOD! It is deeply disappointing and makes me angry honestly

[@samuelbarber6177]

I mean… I guess she’s standing up for what she believes in, but denying others respect and using your platform to promote hate is a weird hill to die on to say the least

[@Gloomdrake]

@@samuelbarber6177 the annoying part is that JK genuinely thinks she's well-informed on the issue, so she's not receptive to any new information because she assumes anything she doesn't already know is false

[@johnvinals7423]

@@friendlyotaku9525 In the end, the biggest note of Wizard Book satire in “The Owl House” is the villain being an angry, bigoted blonde English person who sorts people into categories for easy control and just can’t let go of pathetic old grudges.

[@tabbymoonshine5986]

She's never going to change her mind. if you notice ANYTHING about Terfs online it's that almost their entire life becomes wrapped up in their ideology, even seen some planning and attending 'secret' Terf meetings so they can spout their hate freely. JK Rowling is fully indoctrinated at this point and has the full adoration of the GC movement and alot of conservatives. She's entrenched herself and is basking in the confirmation of her imagined 'righteousness'. This is her life now. And shame on her for it. Shame on them all.

[@shnoozezzz9752]

I'm so just sad and tired, at least the 60th is going to have the amazing Yasmin Finney playing a transfemme or trans woman character which makes me think Rtd is going to continue to fight and push back from the inside for all LGBT people with his work

[@thatDamnAusWhoFan]

One thing I love about doctor who is it doesn't really belong to any one person. The bbc owns it on paper but whe it was cancled and they did everything in their power to destroy it its fans who kept it alive through zeens, and their own writing. Now it's almost fully produced by those same fans. The bbc owns it in paper but they don't deserve it. They never have really. It belongs to us.

[@tokublwhovian]

*sigh* I don’t think the BBC will ever learn, look at what’s gone on within said company over many years (p*dophiles, deaths, bigotry of all kinds etc) if I could, I’d happily tear myself away from the show but it’s getting difficult as time ticks nearer to the 60th and Series 14. With how vocal Russell T Davies has been and Yasmin Finney (being a trans actress) appearing in their IP, you’d think they would think twice about siding with you know who. But, nope 🤦🏻‍♂️ I don’t want to stop being a fan, but if I have to - I will.

[@tokublwhovian]

@@jackmonaghan8477 I honestly don’t follow politics. So this has gone over my head (but I have seen the hashtag: “Defund The BBC”, going around for quite a while. Which is odd, because like you say: they’re not that actually left and I do agree with the “Defund The BBC” people about the ridiculous price people have to pay to watch channels), I apologise. But I’ve always had a bad feeling about the corporation despite loving some of their entertainment (Doctor Who, EastEnders, shows from my childhood and comedy)

[@doctorravenclaw2649]

@@tokublwhovian you get as many people in the ‘defund the BBC’ brigade who are on the right as there are on the left.

[@tokublwhovian]

@@doctorravenclaw2649 I know. But the left aren’t shouting at the corporation for including minorities on screen, whereas the right are.

[@electronics-girl]

Ugh, yeah, I'd really been looking forward to Yasmin Finney being in Doctor Who, but the BBC's transphobia really tarnishes that.

[@tokublwhovian]

@@rhysjonsmusic I beg your pardon? there is no need to be so rude! you don’t know me, so don’t you dare tell me how I feel.

[@arionquill]

If it helps at all, I’m not someone who follows BBC News, and were it not for your Doctor Who videos and the warning accompanying them, I’m not sure I’d even be aware of their antiLGBT coverage. So at the bare minimum, you have helped spread awareness of the problem, which is a necessary first step to correcting it.

[@TTRPGSarvis]

Rowling's in a weird fucking place, where she gets to be the Public face of UK Transphobia, yet everyone is surprised and in denial of it every time that gets pointed out.

[@highlorddarkstar]

Fortunately from my perspective, people have stopped being surprised and her defenders all seem to be transphobic. Mostly they’re just sad she turned out to be so toxic. In light of her current actions, her antisemitism no longer seems unintentional and defendable.

[@mystic_mimi21]

What’s so upsetting and scary is that most likely the people that complained about calling jk and transphobic person (because she is) hold the same views and don’t want to be called transphobic. Often bigots are more scared to be called transphobic than to be actually transphobic. I contrastingly worry that I could to contributing to bigotry of any kind without realising or meaning to and want to be told so if it ever happens. I sympathise with you as I have almost entirely divorced myself from HP and was hard. With Star Wars not making great content most of the time now likewise with marvel and dc, Doctor who is the only property that I have and I have loved DW since I was 4 and one of my earlier memories is watching Rose when it aired and my parents telling me stories about them watching it. I hope that RTD does some brilliant lgbT emphasises on the T stories actors etc and helps the situation. Thank you for sharing your views.

[@ladyliberty417]

So sorry Vera, Jessie sent me to you and I’ve enjoyed your channel a lot- I can understand what you’re going thru and will continue to watch ❣️

[@Lia-uf1ir]

WHAT THE FUCK??? They did not do that!!! Sadly I can’t say I’m surprised though.

[@Lia-uf1ir]

@@falconeshield well, good think I don’t live in an English speaking country so we don’t have the BBC over here. Our primary TV channel in Germany tho is also public broadcasting and has a licence fee (and coincidentally just started airing Doctor Who for the first time).

[@acciotardisalohomora6302]

Your warning at the beginning was the reason I followed this channel along with your Doctor Who analysis. So as many followers it may have cost you it might have helped :P

[@vampiresquid2635]

its so upsetting because the show itself and many of the people who have worked on it are so positive and kind yet the bbc itself is just ehhhhhh its so frustrating

[@tmage23]

"She wouldn't consider herself transphobic" "I'm not racist but..."

[@danilynn9904]

This

[@joeyunderwood]

i don’t think it makes you hypocritical. as you say, the bbc aren’t responsible for the production of doctor who anymore, and their main problem is bbc news. also, the show is run by rtd and will feature trans actors, so that helps.

[@Elwaves2925]

It's also worth pointing out, which you kinda do, that the BBC is a huge organisation full of many departments spread across the country. What one department does should not reflect on what another does.

[@christopherpoff4117]

For what it's worth, I think you can legitimately talk about Doctor Who and not be a hypocrite. Over its history the show has been at odds with the prevailing attitude of the BBC. And unequivocally, Doctor Who itself and it's creative staff are LGBT friendly and representative. The people who'd call you a hypocrite don't sincerely care about the issue.

[@reddwd1232]

Hey don’t let people put u down your amazing and your content is fucking brilliant so thank you for making videos we all have your back

[@jasonirr9826]

Omg I had no idea people were being so toxic and cruel to you on social media to this extent. You are our sister and our comrade. We love you, and your voice is a valuable and necessary one in this media landscape

[@bbudimanalqodri]

Because she told people not to buy the game... The game have nothing to do about Roeling believe.

[@jasonirr9826]

@@bbudimanalqodri telling people not to buy the game isn’t worth that kind of hate don’t make excuses. Also JK still gets a chunk of the profits in owning the Property

[@bbudimanalqodri]

@@jasonirr9826 yeah it does.. Its invalid. You can be disagree with Rowling, but the game didnt make by Rowling. Its like you hate someone but you hurting someone else who innocence. Thank god it is reverse, the game is sold out. So, most people smart enough.

[@jasonirr9826]

@@bbudimanalqodri Rowling still gets the money it is her property so it’s supporting her. How is telling people to not buy a game with threats and harassment? If someone doesn’t want to buy the game and tells other people not too how does that justify threats and harassment? My guy if that’s a justification you’re just a bad person who wants to cause harm and will take someone boycotting a property for justification for doing it. Rowling isn’t separate from the game. There were developers and designers but they already got paid not buying the game will only effect Rowling but she’s rich already so it would only be an ego blow. Meanwhile purchasing the game only benefits her and other already wealthy investors

[@jasonirr9826]

@@bbudimanalqodri this ain’t hard to understand para

[@emcrolls]

Your honesty, transparency & emotional labor on this matter

[@princessmanitari4993]

That last part hits me hard every single time, it gives me so so much feelings of support and safety, thank you. Thank you for being a creator who considers their audience but especially themselves. it has been wonderful following you.

[@GateOfTheories]

I'm sorry you're feeling like this. It's not ok and you should never feel like you have to stop what you love because of the people who make it. I'm hoping for you that when the new era comes out, Russell t Davies vision will come out through it, along with Yasmin Finney being cast and hopefully others along the way. Also, LOVE the new doctor who intro

[@hypnoamber3248]

This is my first time commenting on yours, or anyone's, KZbin because I'm disabled and tech is hard, but Vera I want you to know that I see you and see your struggle with this and I wanted to send you some love and support today. I have a trans daughter and it's through her journey I found you and other trans content creators and I'm so thankful I get to watch you everyday. I recently just re watched 9-13 just so I could watch your videos alongside them. I like that you have a warning about the bbc before your vids because I didn't know what was going on before that. It makes me sad, angry and scared what's going on with BBC news and knowledge means that myself, my family, and others are empowered to push back against BBC news. Thank you for including that clip from RTD because it does make me feel better that at least the head of DW is an ally (at least how it appears now). I was so worried about the whole Sony/bad wolf/Disney thing before this but now I see a pattern that I hope holds true. That pattern being that it looks, to me at least, like the show runners are trying to remove themselves from the BBC as best as they can, to preserve the franchise. And part of that preservation could be tied to the transphobic problems at BBC news. I do also agree with your previous vids on the subject. Right now, and honestly with the benefit of being between seasons, I think a good approach to DW is to wait and see, take in more information, and most importantly use our power as DW fans and trans allies to continue to push BBC news on this issue. If things get worse then I will walk away from DW, however right now we need to be very vocal about all of this. Right now is a time for action. Personally I would be distraught to no longer have DW content from you as we need more queer voices to highlight these issues while also celebrating the art that we love. Queer creators are being removed and pushed out of these spaces and all of us allies need to help better support you and others on this and other platforms. Please continue to do an amazing job. Please know that you are needed and wanted here. There is still time to use our voices, to push for trans rights, and to continue supporting DW, while letting BBC know that we will leave if they continue their bs. They haven't won yet, and although it feels like it gets worse everyday, as long as we have the strength we should keep going. HP is a lost cause, we have the power to save DW.

[@theatrerimbaud3672]

I just want to send you big hugs for this comment. I'm a stranger but it meant a lot to me to read this. Thank you for writing it and for being an ally to your daughter and the community.

[@lasseehrenreich5502]

Probably the best way to handle the situation. As a non-binary person I would also love never to have to think about Rowling again, but with al the shit she is doing, she is making it impossible. I decided to donate $ 9 I know it is not a lot but I just want to help in any possible way.

[@Yan_Alkovic]

Really sorry that you're going through such a messy time... You don't deserve it and I hope that RTD will make this situation easier for all of us. He's such a beacon of hope in these issues.

[@jvictor001]

Well, if RTD didn't even want to put Tennant in 13's (pretty much neutral) costume, I doubt we'll have anything big. I guess having a black doctor for 3 seasons and a trans actress in 1 episode is all we'll get from him lmao

[@daddywhogames6601]

@@jvictor001 have you even watched It's a Sin or any of RTDs stuff after Dr Who? I'm guessing not. And here's his actual quote “With respect to Jodie and her Doctor, I think it can look like mockery when a straight man wears her clothes. To put a great big six-foot Scotsman into them looks like we’re taking the mickey. “Also, I guarantee you it’s the only photograph some of the papers would print for the rest of time. If they can play with gender in a sarcastic or critical way, they will." Sadly the right wing press here in the UK would have had a field day

[@augustjoys]

Is he?

[@butterflypooo]

@@daddywhogames6601 I think RTD meant well by not having Tennant wear womens clothing, but it also subtly implies that trans women who don’t pass are making a “mockery” of women. I don’t think what he did was wrong exactly but it isn’t the most progressive step either. Anyway, I haven’t lost all hope in him but we’ll see.

[@jvictor001]

@@daddywhogames6601 his quote is dumb tbh. A t-shirt and trousers? Like, wow, the beacon of feminine clothing. At the end of the day, the costume regenerated and Tennant is the actual 14th doctor, so the dumb decisions were already made Let's see what else he will restrict himself from writing so the conservative media don't cry

[@davehall7041]

Thank you so much for sharing through the difficulties I love your videos and will always support you

[@christopherjohnson4276]

I love your channel and support your decisions 100%. You have provided me with years of thoughtful Doctor Who reviews, theories and ideas. You are loved. ❤️

[@aran9952]

I read the title and am already moderately pissed off, and it can only get worse from here...

[@angelaholmes8888]

Yeah I'm so furious 😡🤬

[@aran9952]

@@myfamily1989 How dare we be mad that someone is actively campaigning to strip an entire group of people if their rights, right? It must be so relaxing to not care about your fellow human beings.

[@kieraniles688]

I'm pausing the video less than 2 minutes in to tell you what you always tell us (and I it always warms me to hear it): You are beautiful; you are valid; you are loved.

[@paullamar4111]

Have you tried covering the books of Martha Wells? Her "Murderbot" series of books is exciting, entertaining and contains primary characters that are nonbinary. Some of her other books are also very good, but the Murderbot series is hugely popular and new ones are still being written. Despite the name of the series (i.e. "Murderbot"), the series is uplifting and somewhat inspiring.

[@cmmosher8035]

I read Murderbot and Becky Chambers' Wayfarer series in the middle of the pandemic and they were very much the wholesomeness i needed at the time.

[@user-fm8tt2fx3m]

I recently took an interest in Doctor Who and discovered your channel after trawling through a bunch of questionable ones (look they can make whatever videos they want but I just don't wanna watch them), and thank you for being... normal about this. I think you explained your perspective really well, and I just to tack a tiny bit onto RTD being really openly supportive: so is David Tennant! It's unfortunate that we need to celebrate what should be a normal thing, but it helps. I'm glad you're willing to continue talking about Doctor Who. Subscribed and will keep an eye out for the video on the 60th anniv special, and any other vids that pique my interest.

[@amw6846]

I'm so sorry that you're dealing with this. I know it's just... getting harder and harder to be okay. Sending love. 💕💕💕

[@MorbidGod391]

I’m very emotional right now. I have no idea if I am the one who brought this to the forefront but I feel like I owe you an apology and that this video is an answer to my question. I’m sorry if I did bring this to your attention, god knows being a parent is enough to juggle with let alone this drama. And I sincerely thank you for this video. I was really wondering your opinion on this, and why you talk about DW and not HP (I’m actually not a fan of HP, but my mother and wife are) but I was just so confused and I am so thankful you took the time to explain and talk about this. Also I think talking about DW and having that message is important. I never would have known what the BBC is doing, and although I have little control over BBC, the people who live on UK do and if anyone over there watch these videos maybe some good will come of it. Probably not is what my cynical mind would say, but hope is always alive. Thank you again. I also want you to know that you are important to us all, that we value you and we care about you.

[@Rexdrinkredbull]

I just wanna say, I found your channel way back in 2018 when your video about Channel Awesome was recommended to me. Your opinions and input on topics like this has helped me grapple with a lot of my own thoughts in the past, and I find your channel invaluable. Keep moving forward, Vera. You've got this.

[@Azure-Star]

I am so sorry all of this is happening and effecting you financially Vera. I promise I'll support you no matter what you do, because I simply appreciate you as a person and enjoy listening to your thoughts.

[@jdeb7734]

Im so sorry that this is giving you pain in talking about Dr. Who...something you love. I have loved Dr Who since I was 11 (I'm 58) and enjoy your coverage of it, but if you decide you have to stop I will still follow. You, and Jesse G, help me be a better ally to my trans friends and my friends' trans daughters.

[@marocat4749]

Of course she magages to something hate bbc even more too. Like the supervillain that author who shall be names is.

[@lgoamity]

Dr. Who fan of over 40 years. Will stay subscribed to this channel regardless.

[@shaunsworld430]

I’m going to comment on this video to purely in the hope that you do find a way to continue your DR Who reviews and to feel that your not sacrificing something….. I enjoy your reviews and agree with 95% of your comments on Dr Who, you are always top of my list for wanting to know someone else’s point of view.

[@ClaraFinn]

Honestly this is killing my excitement for the new series and my enjoyment of the show in general. Which is a damn shame as it’s been my favourite show since I was a kid, but I can’t put up with this company’s bullshit anymore. When the most mainstream possible media company in the UK that is legally supposed to be impartial is so blatantly anti trans and supporting of Rowling, I can’t watch anymore with a clear conscience. RTD has talked the talk but now it’s time to walk the walk.

[@pitui1987]

Went directly here to link Shaun’s four videos, and was pleasantly surprised to see them in the host’s first pinned comment.

[@Sir_Gerald_Nosehairs.]

It wasn't because she was accused of transphobia, it was because the statement went unchallenged. The BBC isn't like Fox or CNN where you can say what you please without rebuttal, there literally *HAS* to be someone putting the opposite side of an argument there, and it was not done.

[@pamelatough1626]

I hope that everyone continues to support you no matter what you decide because your content is GOOD and because we should always hold up marginalised voices - I admire your honesty and your transparency in grappling with these incredibly deep and entrenched issues. Instead of cancelling, I'd rather advocate for subscribing - subscribing to the voices of those who don't always have a voice in society - only in doing that can we drown out the rest of the hateful noise xx

[@Dave175]

Damn, right before the Take Two of Timeless Children!

[@JennaGetsCreative]

Hearing that BBC employees have been forbidden from attending Pride events really shocked me. I've gone back to school recently to study business, and although my goal is to focus on accounting, I'm still in the early semesters where we dip our toes into everything. From the point of view of Canadian HR laws and practices at least, that's a lawsuit waiting happen!

[@dickottel]

it sounds like something illegal at least in a normal country

[@theGirlFrmMars]

My partner and I have been watching your videos for a while and I just realised we weren't subscribed, so we fixed that! I really feel for you and for other creators who are being so disappointed and betrayed by the properties they love and cover. I don't understand the support these people are receiving while they continue to cause harm and it puts creators in a really tough position, because creators need to pay their bills, too. When it comes to celebrities and companies and organisations, they tell on themselves by being silent about certain things and quick to respond to others. And we do notice what they chose to speak up on and what they choose to stay silent about. Love your videos, Vera. Thanks for this one.

[@toast99bubbles]

The way the BBC is is why I refuse to pay a TV license.

[@johnvinals7423]

Should Russell T Davies just not work on “Doctor Who” anymore? I ask because he has expressed support for trans people and trans rights.

[@toast99bubbles]

@@johnvinals7423 I know Russell is on the side of supporting equality, but I don't see how that's relevant to my comment.

[@johnvinals7423]

@@toast99bubbles Sorry, just venting.

[@gozerthegozarian9500]

At this point, viewers are entitled to a refund imho

[@AH-vm8yo]

Same

[@MorganBriarwood]

The BBC is publicly owned but what that means is they are very much beholden to the government of the day and that’s been a conservative govt for over a decade and one that’s moving further and further to the right. Historically BBC News goes left when we have a Labour govt and right when it’s the Torys in charge. But that’s not the whole of the BBC. The entertainment side produces a lot of queer friendly content, drama, documentary and unscripted. I can’t tell you what to think, Vera, and I understand your struggle but I don’t believe supporting Doctor Who translates as propping up transphobia. Given RTD’s allyship, doesn’t support send the opposite message? FWIW, you have my support no matter what content you decide to put out there. ❤

[@Tharries]

I feel you Vera, while not a direct corollary many big media corporations have had hugely ableist hiring practices that has often made it difficult for me to enjoy certain entertainment. If it’s any comfort it appears that the team doing Doctor Who seem to be staunchly against the beliefs of some within the news arm, as you say RTD as well as Yasmine Finney’s casting are proof of that. I genuinely think you’re one of the best and most consistent Who content creators out there and I hope you know that you’re input is hugely appreciated.

[@bekenotsalony2905]

Reminds me of the stuff in "The Good Place" where you find out more people are going to hell because what used to be 1 decision work x points, is now 1 decision that is a chained decision across hundreds of thousands of factors and other choices, that changes the points drastically. We want to be good friends and good allies, but sometimes that means not doing the things we'd want so that we're not helping the people who hurt our friends and other people. It's sorta like supporting lab grown gems instead of the diamond trade because there's a lot less slavery and murder in one of them than the other. I can't speak foreveryone, but I know which ever way your channel goes, I'll still be coming in and watching because I'm here for your personality and the way your brain works on various topics.

[@Alhana_E]

Massive love Vera, i know it can't be hard. it's truely heartbreaking, and as a UK resident, terrifying!.

[@lafeministe24]

I try to keep my head down and focus on what I can do, support and effect…but, damn, it’s hard to avoid the onslaught of hate and trash. 💗💗💗

[@Faeryunknow]

Thanks so much for your honesty and openess

[@WiloPolis03]

"No ethical consumption" gets exploited too damn much. I see it all too often stop being a reference to exploitation and instead be used as an excuse to just not give a #%$ about what one ever does or engages/disengages in.

[@WiloPolis03]

@@christopherb501 Exactly

[@bekkers29]

* screaming internally while weeping aloud * I'm so tired.

[@tabbymoonshine5986]

We all are. Solidarity. Rest when you can, unplug if you can and take breaks. We are worthy :)

[@FistOfFiori]

I know it's the BBC but Doctor Who is now run by a fierce ally to trans people, one of the main stars in the anniversary specials is trans, the current temporarily returning Doctor David Tennant is also an ally and frequently wears his non-binary pin proudly (he and Georgia have a non-binary kid apparently), as is Ncuti Gatwa and the show seems to be less creatively controlled by the BBC. I know that's not a perfect situation but the people that matter with the show are on yours (and the LGBTQIA+ community's) side.

[@di7770]

Sending you support, take care during this difficult time. Luckily there is hope for Doctor Who such as potentially cutting ties to the BBC in the not too distant future. Might take a while and a lot of work, but it is a possibility.

[@gabrielamedinavalle3228]

I'm so sorry you're going through this. Sometimes all we can afford do is to do the least damage instead of none at all. Human existence in itself is paradoxical in many ways. Sending hugs

[@dianjm93]

I don't usually comment despite following you for years (I prefer to lurk rather than interact) but as a fan of Doctor Who and a trans person I understand your feelings. At the end of the day is exhausting. Some people doesn't even make the effort to understand what is the issue. I would continue to watch and support your channel, you are doing the right thing 🙏

[@rivwilson9330]

I have no words and just want to send care and hugs your way. This is a horrific position to be in

[@joskitchennotebook]

I’m so sorry for what you’ve been going through. Hugs from Brisbane, Australia ❤

[@bluehero-96]

The BBC needs to be put on a short leash and reminded that they work for the public, not outraged bigots.

[@nevetstrevel4711]

Honestly covering it but putting the disclaimer and Links to videos in the description it can actually be a good things. Lots of people just here a 15 second mob mad jk had opinion they don't like. By covering Dr Who but bringing it up you might educate people on it I knew very little originally but between you and Jesse have understood it a lot more.

[@visionary202]

Thank you! Listening to/reading comments from this council really helps me process some of this stuff more effectively. Also, your pet rat is oh so cute

[@simonecruice-barnett4560]

oy…. An abundance of empathy for you and appreciation for your vigilant efforts to remain happy and comfortable with your work

[@citrinedragonfly]

I'm listening to a podcast right now about Mary Whitehouse, and I find it ironic that she's "winning" after all these years, at least on one front. If there's an afterlife, she's chuckling in smug satisfaction. Ugh. Thank you, Vera, for continuing to talk about difficult issues, and how you reconcile - or don't - what's happening with your personal ethics. Your honesty and frankness is appreciated, and you raise points that are definitely worth the thought. I will freely admit I'm here because of your Doctor Who content, and you are one of the few "Whotubers" I watch. The show has been part of my life for nearly 30 years, and goodness knows it's been problematic since the very beginning, even as it did so many good things for television and showed wonderful stories. Given the Beeb's current lack of support for transfolk, I'm glad RTD and Bad Wolf Studios is taking on more of the responsibilities of production, and it isn't wholly funded through the BBC. I have more faith with him at the helm that the show will continue to be inclusive and supportive. I am so sorry that you have JKR's hate machine directed at you, and that they've managed to shut down one of your platforms. You always remind us that we are beautiful, valid, and loved. Please remember that you are also beautiful, valid, and loved. The meetings wouldn't run without you at the helm.

[@corwinsshadow]

I'll just say that I appreciate you grappling with these type of things. It helps me grapple with it, too. But, if the time comes you decide you don't want to/just can't do that any more, that's okay too.

[@proquar9173]

Many thanks Vera, I've loved your DW content from way back. It's been great to watch you grow. And I hate that you are having to feel this pressure - whatever you decide you are loved. And there are plenty of hypocrites in this situation, you are not one of them. Keep being fantastic!

[@Donnagata1409]

Sorry that I now and then miss some of your videos, but I just became a Patreon! You deserve the support!

[@joxclever]

And to think I was ACTUALLY considering getting a TV license again, after so many years, for new Who. Nope. Noy happening. They don't get a penny.

[@PaulEKlein]

Love your channels and will always watch, supporting whatever decisions you make.

[@ellarasei4404]

Im a occasional watcher of CoG and I am ashamed to admit this was the video I realized you and Jessie Gender aren't the same person

[@CouncilofGeeks]

And I’m only slightly ashamed to say that I laughed out loud at that.

[@theoncomingstorm7903]

I do think the fact DW has been a consistently pro-trans piece of media a majority of the time (The firing of Dreyfus from BF, the blacklisting of Gareth Roberts, the EDA Novels repeatedly implying Eight is non-binary, Rose in the 60th etc), and the fact the show has existed longer than the current administration of the BBC that is pushing for this, does help in some way. But I suppose I do already obtain most of DW through 'other sources', (Big Finish being the exception since I cannot in good conscience do that to a company that small). I do personally think it is physically impossible to cut off any media that is 'connected in some way' to messaging you disagree with. Ultimately as you implied its pretty much impossible to drop everything that has problematic organisations attached as much as we wish it wasn't. But yeah ultimately you'll have to decide for yourself what you are or are not comfortable with, ethically and financially. Love your content btw, keep it up.

[@CritterKeeper01]

A big motherly hug to you! I think your support for Doctor Who will help show the overall-BBC money people that the Trans-friendly show is valuable to them, and if there is any hope of getting the rest of the BBC to rein in its news department, voting with your pocketbook and ratings is going to be a big part of it. I think your intro card is the perfect solution, making people aware of the issue without bringing down the rest of the video. I'm not trying to make an excuse, I honestly believe we need to support any part of the BBC that *is* doing the right thing, and only protest and punish the parts that have the problem.

[@BookishGecko]

It’s an awful situation to be in and I love dr who but I loathe the bbc, they’re too close to the tories here for comfort. It’s genuinely horrible. Thank you for being you, you are a beacon of light in this messed up world 💜

[@thisiseeade]

Just wanna say how much I appreciate you always sharing your thoughts and being so open on here 💕

[@jordanwhite352]

For the past few years I've basically written off the United Kingdom as a country which sucks because throughout my life I've always wanted to visit and the really sad part is that so bad down there that all my British friends are telling me that no I've made the right decision don't ever come here until things actually get better.

[@llt8101]

In a way, having the message at the beginning and continuing to do the Doctor Who videos is a good way to keep getting the message about the BBC's support of transphobia out there. If some people see it and stop the video then they've still seen it. Not doing the videos would do less in spreading the message.

[@monikagwerder4074]

Dear Vera, despite all your pain , which I so wish you didn’t have to endure, and I completely agree with your critique of the BBC as it is now, I just really want you to know how truly deeply you are loved by your fans , such as me,and how much your insightful thoughts are appreciated. You are such a beautiful anod wonderful person, Vera

[@stevenbrodie404]

As a British person, it's hard to explain how influential the BBC is to our lives, and how weird it feels to go against it. It's not just some tv channel, or one news show you can pick out of dozens. It is, as the culture dictates, THE unbiased news information. The children-centric arm of the BBC; CBBC, makes really great content that you just couldn't get elsewhere in the UK. That includes Newsround, a child-friendly (but still frank and honest) news show for kids. BBC news, you're then led to believe, is the world-class pinnacle of unbiased, truthful journalism. But as soon as you approach them from another perspective, you start to see some fatal flaws, and they just never go away. As a British person, knowing how deeply affecting the BBC can be to the public, I'm scared to ever return to the UK, just by seeing how transphobic the culture has become

[@lcflngn]

Oh damn Vera, your Who vids are by far my favorite. A few have rly shook me, and made me see things differently. It’s rough, but I’m glad that way less BBC interaction may allow you to stick with Who. I’m sticking with it, for now… Anyway, will stick with you in any case. Your choice. And thanks for going over all the ish. It’s real. Not fair at all we can’t have nice things, just pisses me off. It is a mess, for real.

[@CharlieBrookReads]

Sending you loads of love xxx It’s an awful position that you have been put in 😢

[@Brunoxsa]

Thank you for the video and your honesty, Vera! I primarily watch your channel for the Doctor Who content, but I also love the news and essays about other medias. Considering how it is your main financial source of income for your livehood, you are not a hypocrite for keep covering Doctor Who because you are still highlighting the transphobic bias by the BBC News branch. The argument "You criticize society yet you participate in it" is very unrealistic because it assumes that every critic has no responsibilities or ties, and they also possess the financial independence in order to abandon the society. Without mentioning how counterintuitive it is, whereas we should actually be aware and focus in solving the problems of the current society, instead of trying to ignore them.

[@zravenwolf1408]

Just hugs and love to you. I'm so sorry, for everything the world is doing.

[@TheSpaceNerd1000]

In terms of suggestions for content, have you considered checking out Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere if you haven't yet? You might have some decent support from fans seeing a first time reader or new fans wondering what the fuss is about. Plus the books come out decently often. I'm sorry you're going through this

[@bluequartzcomet]

[@IceNixie0102]

O god, hon, don't turn into TMZ. None of us are here for that. We're here for you, for you sharing the things that bring you joy. For your perspectives on current events. For. You.

[@benjaminjackson6707]

Another point about Doctor Who - we're definitely getting some form of trans representation in the show in the near future, very likely to be done well