Media Monster

Will The BBC Give World Cup Viewers A Vuvuzela-Free Option?

FIFA might not ban vuvuzelas from the World Cup, but broadcasters might begin doing it artificially. A new AP report suggests the BBC, after receiving more than 500 complaints about the noise produced by the plastic horns, may introduce an option for viewers to mute it.

Apparently, the BBC is already trying to mask the buzzing on its broadcasts, but may have to take additional steps. From their statement on the vuvuzela controversy:

“We have already taken steps to minimize the noise and are continuing to monitor the situation. If the vuvuzela continues to impact on audience enjoyment, we will look at what other options we can take to reduce the volume further.”

It’s the most direct attempt to date to silence the sound that’s annoying untold millions across the world. Apparently, the “other options” they mentioned includes a “red button” option, where viewers would press a red button (go figure) on their remotes, which would switch viewers to a separate channel showing the match, sans crowd noise but with commentary.

If the BBC does introduce this option, they should have no problem getting viewers to go along with it – we all know how hard it is to resist pushing a red button. And as long as the glasses the guy to the left is wearing are still allowed, we’re on board too.

Photo via