Lorraine Kelly warns it has become 'almost impossible' for working-class youngsters to make it into TV like she did
When ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly was starting out in her career she said a TV executive told her she wouldn't make it because of her "working-class Glasgow accent".
Thursday 9 May 2024 15:28, UK
Lorraine Kelly says it has become "almost impossible" for working-class youngsters to break into TV.
The ITV presenter spoke candidly about the financial barriers preventing some from accepting a job in the media.
She criticised a London-centric approach from the TV industry and media that often priced out many people due to the capital's sky-high rent prices and cost of living compared to other parts of the country.
Kelly said: "The high cost of living and working now makes it almost impossible for working-class kids from the rest of the country to accept a job in London.
"That has to change."
The presenter called for more opportunities outside of London and added: "We quite rightly have stressed the importance of diversity in recent years, but that also has to include young working-class people who understand and can relate to the vast majority of our viewers.
"It is in all of our interests to make sure they have the opportunity to have their voices heard."
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Tap hereThe star also recalled an occasion when a TV executive told her she would not make a career in television because of her accent.
"I was told by the boss of BBC Scotland that I would never make it in TV because of my working-class Glasgow accent," she said.
Kelly added: "I was given opportunities that, sadly, have become almost non-existent.
"I went straight to my local newspaper from school and then to the BBC."
On Sunday, Kelly will be presented with the TV special award at the 2024 BAFTA Television Awards.
Now one of TV's most recognisable faces, Kelly learned of her BAFTA award live on air on 25 March, being told by Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid.
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Previous names to win the special award include Clare Balding, Idris Elba and Sir Lenny Henry.