A protest in support of Georgi Angelov, who was removed as the host of the show "Istoriya. BG", took place on September 14 in front of the Bulgarian National Television building. In an official statement issued on September 11, the Media Board emphasized that it is unacceptable for programming decisions to be commented on in a political context. The Board expressed surprise at the subsequent political reaction and confirmed that the decision by the "Programming Content" Directorate for the show "Istoriya. BG" to continue with a single permanent host was made within the internal rules and authority of the public broadcaster.
The Director General of the media, Milena Milotinova, explained the process behind changing "Istoriya. BG" into the show "Denyat zapochva" (The Day Begins) with Georgi Lyubenov as host. According to her, the decision was approved by the Program Director after being prepared by a commission appointed by him. Milotinova noted that since the Program Director is responsible for the media's programming, this matter falls within his competence. She once again addressed the issue of political commentary regarding programming decisions, stating she was surprised by the reaction, but added: "but let's not comment on it".
Although the Director General has not read the dozens of concepts submitted for the various shows on the media, she shared her vision for the future of the historical format. "I would ask: shouldn't a history show build a bridge between elderly, wise scholars and the young audience? Shouldn't it bring a young audience into the studio – students, pupils; and isn't it better, when major historical events occur, for them to be broadcast outside the media studio and to go where these events are actually happening?" Milena Milotinova stated. She added that, as far as she knows, such a concept has been submitted and approved, which she believes would expand the show's audience and give it much more meaning, but she concluded with the words: "but let me not overstep the duties of another position".
In addition to the programming changes, Milena Milotinova also announced upcoming television events, noting the high interest in the sixth season of the series "Pod prikritie" (Undercover). The project will premiere on October 5 in Hall 1 of the National Palace of Culture, and its broadcast on the media will begin on October 10 at 22:00.
/VB/