BBC branded ‘useless’ over huge error announcing David Hockney’s death

Today, the art world paid tribute to David Hockney after his death aged 88.

Hockney, who was one of the UK’s most important and influential artists, passed away peacefully in his home yesterday.

Following the announcement, there was an outpouring of grief from friends and fans alike.

However, the BBC has been criticised for making a huge mistake while reporting the artist’s death.

During the 1 pm news bulletin, a graphic was displayed on screen which read ‘David Hockney resigns’.

The mistake was almost immediately noticed by viewers who questioned how the news organisation had allowed such a silly error to be broadcast.

‘The BBC seemed confused at lunchtime,’ wrote @trashingdays on X. ‘They put up a caption “David Hockney Resigns”.’

@Elms_1905 added: ‘Well done the #bbc apparently David Hockney has resigned from life, otherwise known as died. Who is in charge of this?’

Meanwhile, @Beverle48452933 was the most excoriating, writing: ‘I hope they apologise (Sic) to his family. Why is the @BBCBreaking @BBC so useless??’

@Toddyspace had a theory as to why the mistake had been made, and it seems it might be Keir Starmer’s fault.

‘There must be some embarrassment at BBC 1 news this afternoon,’ they wrote. ‘BBC headline caption said ‘David Hockney resigns’…resigns from life that is…the iconic artist has died at the age of 88. Perhaps their error was down to so many government resignations these past few weeks.’

Metro has approached the BBC for comment.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.