EastEnders Star Colin Salmon Defends BBC Amid Trump Lawsuit Threat: “We’re Suing Ourselves”
EastEnders actor Colin Salmon has fiercely defended the BBC following reports that Donald Trump is threatening to sue the broadcaster, calling out those who appeared to celebrate the move online.
The 63-year-old, who plays George Knight in the BBC soap, took to social media to voice his frustration after a Panorama documentary featuring edited footage of Trump’s 2021 Capitol Hill speech sparked global backlash — and a legal threat from the former U.S. president.
“Patriots Should Really Know This”
Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Colin urged people to think carefully about what the lawsuit could mean for public broadcasting in the UK.
“When British people celebrate the idea of suing the BBC they are actually celebrating suing ourselves,” he wrote.
“We are the custodians of what is considered to be the greatest, most balanced of global broadcasters, owned by and answerable to us. Patriots should really know this and protect it at all costs.”
He continued by praising the BBC’s independence, adding:
“The fact that we all have differing opinions over its fairness suggests it’s actually getting something right. It’s never at the mercy of a sponsor, owner, magnate, billionaire — and that should be applauded because that is so rare at this point in time. #ThinkAboutIt.”
BBC Faces Fallout Over Edited Trump Clip
The controversy began when Panorama aired a programme that featured two edited segments of Trump’s Capitol Hill speech spliced together. The edit allegedly made it appear that Trump was explicitly encouraging the 2021 riot.
According to the BBC, the changes were intended to “convey the message of the speech” and help viewers understand “how it was received by his supporters.” But the edit drew fierce criticism, with Trump accusing the BBC of being “100% fake news” and a “propaganda machine.”
BBC Chair Samir Shah has since apologised for the edit, acknowledging it was misleading.
The fallout led to the shock resignations of Director-General Tim Davie and News CEO Deborah Turness, both of whom cited accountability and integrity as reasons for stepping down.
Davie wrote in his resignation letter:
“Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable. There have been some mistakes made, and as Director-General I have to take ultimate responsibility.”
UK Government Backs the BBC
Despite the controversy, Prime Minister Keir Starmer publicly defended the corporation, describing it as “an internationally renowned institution” that remains vital to Britain’s cultural identity.
A Downing Street spokesperson echoed that support, dismissing Trump’s “corrupt journalists” claim as baseless.
The BBC has since confirmed it has received a formal letter threatening legal action from Trump’s team, saying:
“We will review the letter and respond directly in due course.”
Colin Salmon’s Message Resounds with Fans
Colin’s post quickly gained traction among EastEnders fans and media commentators, many praising his call for perspective and unity.
One user replied: “Well said. The BBC belongs to us, not to politics or billionaires.” Another added: “Refreshing to hear a voice defending truth and balance in journalism.”
As the legal dispute unfolds, Salmon’s words serve as a powerful reminder of the BBC’s unique place in British life — and of the importance of protecting it from political and financial interference.