A British radio station has issued a public apology after mistakenly broadcasting a false announcement claiming that King Charles III had died.
The embarrassing error occurred on Tuesday afternoon at Radio Caroline’s Essex studio. According to The Guardian, a pre-prepared emergency system meant for the eventual death of a monarch was accidentally triggered due to a computer malfunction.
Station manager Peter Moore explained in a Facebook statement: “Due to a computer error at our main studio, the Death of a Monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated, mistakenly announcing that HM the King had passed away.”
The station said the sudden silence that followed the announcement quickly alerted staff to the mistake. They restored normal programming and issued an immediate on-air apology.
Moore added that the station deeply regretted the incident and hoped to continue its long-standing relationship with the royal family.
The report noted that the station did not reveal how long the incorrect announcement remained on air before it was corrected.
In a separate broadcasting mishap this week, the BBC also apologized after listeners to an Elaine Paige radio programme reportedly heard a repeat of the previous week’s show due to a scheduling error.
The internet is reacting. One person wrote: “Imagine hearing that announcement and thinking it was real. I would have panicked.” Another said: “Computer error? That is a very expensive mistake.” 😂
Someone else added: “The Queen’s Christmas message story is funny. They really want to keep that relationship.”
A different voice said: “This is why you double-check before pressing the red button.”
What do you think should the station face consequences or is it an honest mistake?
Drop your thoughts below. 👇
