BBC News’ search for a royal editor falters as top candidate Roya Nikkhah declines the role.
The BBC’s quest to appoint its first-ever royal editor has encountered a significant setback, leaving the process in uncertainty.
Roya Nikkhah, who was the broadcaster’s top pick for the position, has decided not to take the role and will continue her work at The Sunday Times.
Nikkhah, currently the royal editor for The Sunday Times and a contributor to CBS News, was highly regarded by the BBC, especially after her involvement in high-profile coverage like Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.
However, despite the BBC’s interest, Nikkhah has opted to stay with the Rupert Murdoch-owned newspaper. She has not commented on her decision.
This development has sparked concerns about the future of the BBC’s search for a royal editor. According to sources, the BBC had already turned away other candidates, assuming Nikkhah would accept the position. The situation has been described by some as a “debacle.”
The search for a royal editor has been ongoing for several months, with interviews reportedly taking place in June. Among the candidates were Chris Ship, ITV News’ royal editor, and Rhiannon Mills, Sky News’ royal correspondent.
Despite these alternatives, the focus on Nikkhah has now cast doubt on whether the BBC will continue its efforts to fill the role.
The need for a royal editor became apparent following the retirement of Nicholas Witchell, who spent 25 years covering the royal beat for the BBC.
Traditionally, the BBC has appointed royal correspondents rather than editors. However, the decision was made last year to create a more senior editorial role.
Internal candidates were initially considered for the position, with Mark Easton, BBC News’ home editor, and Daniela Relph, a royal correspondent, both being seen as likely contenders. However, in April, both were informed that they had not been selected for the role.
The decision not to appoint Easton or Relph sparked discontent within the BBC, with some expressing frustration over the process. One insider went as far as to say that the “whole thing stinks.”
Easton, who has extensive experience with the BBC, was reportedly required to complete a written test as part of his application, which was likened by one source to a “GCSE English” exam.
Relph, meanwhile, has since been promoted to senior royal correspondent, a role that sources suggest was intended to complement the position of royal editor.
With Nikkhah’s decision to remain at The Sunday Times, the BBC’s plans for its royal editor position are now uncertain. The corporation has declined to comment on whether it will continue to pursue the appointment.
As the search drags on, questions remain about the BBC’s approach and its commitment to filling one of its most high-profile on-air roles.
