Radio Caroline breached Ofcom rules after mistakenly announcing King's death
Radio Caroline has been reprimanded by Ofcom for mistakenly broadcasting a false announcement of King Charles III's death. The error occurred when a staff member accessed pre-recorded obituary files, which were then accidentally aired during a remote broadcast.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the risks of automated broadcasting systems and the regulatory requirements for accuracy in news media.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The station celebrated its 60th birthday in 2024
Radio Caroline has been found in breach of broadcasting rules after it mistakenly announced the death of King Charles III.
The station aired three pre-recorded announcements falsely stating the King had died during the Barry Marsh Show on 19 May.
The messages claimed the "news media" had "confirmed" the death, and were followed by the national anthem and 16 minutes of silence on DAB+, while AM listeners heard back-up music. A correction and apology was broadcast 30 minutes later.
The ruling by media watchdog Ofcom stated that once the staff member who accidentally played the files realised what they had done, they stopped playing them, "panicked and left the premises".
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