Yvette Fielding, known for being the youngest host ever of Blue Peter, has revealed that she experienced bullying during her time on the show and almost left as a result. Fielding, who joined the children’s programme when she was 18, stated that she was pushed to her limits, and her experience would likely lead to more significant consequences for a young presenter today. The presenter alleged that most of the mistreatment came from Biddy Baxter, Blue Peter’s prominent editor, who was in charge of the show for 25 years. Fielding recounted being consistently criticised for her presenting style and described Baxter as cruel.
Fielding discussed feeling homesick and alone during her first year with the show. She felt she was left to her own devices, with no guidance or instruction, and struggled to adapt to her role in the team. Fielding also claimed that producers imposed strict curfews on her, phoning every night to ensure she went to bed, and Baxter forced her to display the effects of her skin condition, vitiligo, on television, despite her objections.
Fielding considered quitting during her first year, but ultimately remained until Baxter retired later that year. However, Fielding remarked that Baxter made her a stronger person during her tenure. Fielding explained that she would have never been able to tell individuals where to go if not for the experience with Baxter. Ultimately, Fielding expressed gratitude to Baxter, adding that she held no grudges against the strict editor.
Fielding’s experiences echoed those of other former presenters of the show, including Valerie Singleton and Peter Purves. Singleton described similar circumstances, while Purves commented on Baxter’s critical nature. BBC News approached Baxter, who is now 90, for a comment but has yet to receive a response. Baxter spoke with The Independent in 2009 and jokingly turned the questioning about her being dictatorial back on the interviewer. Baxter emphasised that she only had three secretaries in 23 years of work and must have had bearable moments.
The BBC failed to comment on Fielding’s allegations. Fielding would go on to host and appear on other shows, including Most Haunted and Ghosthunting. Fielding also participated in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2015. Blue Peter celebrated its 63rd year on 16 October 2021
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