Behind the Bastards Behind the Bastards

Part Two: Jimmy Savile: Britain's Unending Nightmare

Apr 16, 2026 · 1h 2m

Summary

This episode of Behind the Bastards details Jimmy Savile’s rise to fame in the 1950s and 60s as a DJ and broadcaster. The hosts explain how Savile exploited the emerging youth culture and his access to pop stars to groom teenage girls, using his eccentric persona as a shield. They discuss his predatory tactics at dance halls and on Top of the Pops, highlighting how his "weirdo" image disguised his abuse while media elites valued his ability to control young audiences.

Topics discussed

Intro, ads, and guest introduction Savile's rise: Pirate radio and BBC gatekeepers DJ career, twin turntables, and early predation Smooch Time, celebrity access, and squalid living The 'weirdo' strategy and professional wrestling Top of the Pops and exploiting teenage dancers The Otley Gala: Demanding a 'guard of honor' Specific abuse accounts and police complicity Systemic cover-up, book plug, and outro
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