TVE, Spain's national public broadcaster, is under fire for recent errors and controversial programming changes, drawing sharp criticism from prominent figures and viewers alike.
One of the most vocal critics is José Ramón Patterson, a well-known correspondent for RTVE. He is notorious for his straightforward critiques, and this time he did not hold back, particularly following a glaring mistake during the December 26 Telediario broadcast. While reporting on the search for a missing climber in the Picos de Europa, the Telediario displayed the incorrect geographical location, leading to widespread discussion on social media.
"¿SOSTRES, CANTABRIA? ¿De verdad, @telediario_tve? Hasta donde sé, el operativo que busca al montañero leonés perdido en los Picos de Europa está en SOTRES, localidad del municipio de Cabrales, que, de momento, sigue siendo ASTURIAS," Patterson expressed on social media. This geographical blunder was not his first criticism aimed at the network this year.
He also condemned the transformation undergone by another TVE program, 'D Corazón,' previously hosted solely by Anne Igartiburu. Patterson lamented the changes made to the show, which now features co-hosts, including Jordi González and several new collaborators. His dissatisfaction boiled over as he noted how the revamped show resembled more of a tabloid-style program akin to Telecinco's infamous 'Sálvame'. "Mientras espero el Telediario, veo de refilón ese nefando programa de TVE1 llamado #DCorazón, impropio de una tv pública. Y, aparte de que no conozco a nadie de los protagonistas de las informaciones, tengo la impresión de estar viendo una versión de 'Sálvame'," he stated, clearly indicating his disapproval.
Patterson's comments resonate with many viewers who feel the quality and standards of RTVE content have diminished. He concluded, "Esta no es mi TVE, me la han cambiado. ¡Gensanta!" reflecting nostalgia for the previous styles of programming.
Meanwhile, the broadcasting world is buzzing with rumors about potential new content for TVE. Recently reported by El Televisero, there appears to be plans for integrating elements from the beloved 'Sálvame' program back onto the public channel. Since the cancellation of 'Sálvame' by Mediaset, there have been whispers of creating something similar under the name 'Ni que fuéramos,' which has been airing on Canal Quickie and TEN since 'Sálvame' went off the air.
Sources indicate these changes could gain momentum following the promotion of José Pablo López as the president of RTVE. The initial approval of the 'Sálvame' universe is set for January 2025. There are discussions surrounding whether to retain the name 'Ni que fuéramos Shhh' or to revert to the classic title 'Sálvese quien pueda,' initially broadcasted on Netflix.
Such changes entail more than just content; there's the potential loss of popular collaborators like Belén Esteban, who may move back to Mediaset. To the contrary, new faces like Alba Carrillo, Maestro Joao, and Nagore Robles are expected to join the public broadcaster's ranks.
Despite shifts and uncertainty, María Patiño remains tied to the show as its presenter, likely with support from co-hosts to re-establish the dynamic format of multiple presenters, reminiscent of the latter stages of 'Sálvame.' Notably, names like Innés Hernand and Aitor Albizua are under consideration for the role.
It's clear from Patterson's role as both critic and observer, as well as from the public discourse, the transformation of the content at RTVE has become cause for concern. Many viewers lament the changes and voice their opinions vocally online, indicating deep-seated fears about the integrity of public broadcasting.
Overall, the shifts happening at TVE not only disrupt the programming schedule but also spark broader discussions about the future direction of Spain's public broadcasting service. Critics like Patterson underline the need to uphold standards and maintain clarity among informational broadcasts, as they navigate these changes.
TVE is at a crossroads, where it must contend with both audience expectations and potential shifts toward more sensational content. With Patterson's outspoken nature and the parallel developments surrounding 'Sálvame,' all eyes are on how TVE will navigate this storm of critique and redefinition.
