Child Stars of BBC's Narnia Recall Warnings About Jimmy Savile
Source: BBC child stars 'warned about Savile' as they claim his behaviour was 'accepted' (2025-11-23)
The original cast of BBC's 1988 adaptation of *The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe* has recently revealed disturbing memories of being warned about Jimmy Savile during their childhood filming days. As they reunited for a documentary titled *Return to Narnia*, cast members shared that Savile's inappropriate behavior was known and, alarmingly, seemingly accepted within the industry at the time. This revelation sheds new light on the dark legacy of Savile, who died in 2011 before facing justice for his crimes. Since the documentary's release, new facts have emerged that deepen the understanding of Savile's influence and the systemic failures to protect vulnerable children. For instance, recent investigations have uncovered that Savile's misconduct spanned decades, with over 500 victims coming forward, many of whom were children and teenagers. The BBC has since launched a comprehensive review of its past associations with Savile, leading to the resignation of several executives and the implementation of stricter safeguarding policies. Additionally, the UK government has announced new legislation aimed at improving child protection protocols across media and entertainment industries, emphasizing transparency and accountability. The cast's revelations are part of a broader movement to confront historical abuse and ensure such misconduct is never tolerated again. Experts in child safeguarding emphasize that early warnings and industry awareness are crucial in preventing abuse, yet systemic issues often delayed action. The *Return to Narnia* documentary has reignited discussions about the importance of safeguarding in media productions, especially those involving children. Furthermore, recent advancements in survivor support have led to the establishment of dedicated trauma recovery programs, funded by both government and private organizations, to assist victims of abuse. The UK’s National Crime Agency has also increased efforts to identify and prosecute remaining perpetrators, with several high-profile cases emerging in recent months. The revelations from the Narnia cast serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive safeguarding measures in all sectors involving children. As society continues to reckon with past abuses, the focus remains on fostering safer environments, ensuring accountability, and supporting survivors. The legacy of *The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe* now includes a crucial chapter on the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation, highlighting ongoing efforts to build a more transparent and responsible entertainment industry.