THE BBC is set to launch an investigation into Naga Munchetty following a string of complaints.
The Breakfast host, 50, has been placed “under review” while bosses consider escalating matters to a formal investigation.
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A source said bosses had heard from a number of aggrieved colleagues, logging concerns over her “hard” and “bullying” behaviour on BBC Breakfast and her Radio 5 Live show.
She had also been hauled in by bosses over allegations she made an off-air sex jibe at 5 Live.
The source said: “Following the amount of people who have come forward to share their experiences with Naga, the BBC has officially moved to place the complaints under review.
“The review is to ascertain whether a full-on investigation is required and that could come in weeks.”
We have reported she faced complaints on 5 Live including a bullying claim and the use of crude, sexual language.
Bosses were forced to apologise on her behalf after a tense interview with Spice Girl Geri Horner in 2023.
A BBC spokesperson said: “While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values.
“We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed.”
Her conduct came under the spotlight after a probe into the award-winning show’s director, Richard Frediani.
He has returned to work following the investigation into his conduct, including a claim he “physically shook” a female worker.
A second “listening” review by HR has encouraged staff to share any grievances about Frediani, Munchetty and her co-host Charlie Stayt.
But many feel that Frediani being allowed to return to work means bosses are ready to move on.
A source: “There were always workers who backed Frediani’s tougher, more traditional journalistic approach and think the ‘softies’ needed thicker skin.
“Obviously there were others who disagreed and that’s what led to the investigation into his behaviour. That already created two camps on the show. But the revelations about Naga have thrown a new twist on the scandal.
“Some find her a passionate advocate of people behind the scenes, while others find her as difficult as Fredi.
“This explosive mix has led to a deluge of revelations from both sides, creating a huge headache for the BBC as it scrambles to mop up the mess. It’s everyone for themselves like the Hunger Games.”
Munchetty began work on BBC Breakfast in 2014 and covers Thursday to Saturday alongside Stayt, as well as presenting a Radio 5 programme three times a week.
She is the BBC’s 10th highest earner, on around £355,000.
We reported since the bullying row had erupted on BBC Breakfast, her team had approached LBC radio to seek out new opportunities.
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