BBC apologises after CBeebies air Jimmy Savile sketch

CBBC viewers were ‘shocked’ by the unexpected ‘jingle jangle’ skit.

The BBC has apologised after a repeated episode of children’s programme Tweenies included a sketch featuring alleged paedophile Jimmy Savile.

The episode was broadcast on CBeebies earlier today; it’s airing prompting hundreds of comments on social networking websites.  The episode of the Tweenies was filmed in 2001, the corporation issued an apology and said the episode will not air again.

“This morning CBeebies broadcast a repeat of an episode of the Tweenies, originally made in 2001, featuring a character dressed as a DJ impersonating Jimmy Savile. This programme will not be repeated and we are very sorry for any offence caused.” – BBC

The programme featured character Max dressed up as Savile, mimicking his style and catchphrases. Although the Tweenies was axed in 2003, episodes are regularly repeated on the CBeebies channel which is aimed at under 5’s.

Jimmy Savile was expose last year as an apparent prolific paedophile following an ITV documentary. It subsequently transpired that Savile had allegedly abused children for decades, including some incidents taking place on BBC premises.