The Reckoning

In the early 60s, Jimmy Savile became famous as a DJ in the dance halls of Leeds and Manchester. He ran sell-out dances for young people - but was also able to exploit this position.

In an effort to legitimise his reputation, Savile took advantage of his celebrity status to pursue a voluntary role at his local hospital, Leeds General Infirmary. And his popularity as a DJ led the BBC to ask him to host their new TV show Top of the Pops.

Top of the Pops made Savile a household name. His growing influence within the BBC and at a range of institutions enabled him to act with apparent impunity. This episode explores the appalling impact of his crimes and the difficulty faced when people tried to raise the alarm.

At the peak of his fame and influence, Savile hosted Jim'll Fix It on BBC One. The series made him a regular feature in households across Britain. He further cemented his position of power by spearheading a fundraising campaign for Stoke Mandeville Hospital, giving him unprecedented political access. His status allowed him to hide in plain sight and silence the victims of his crimes.

During the early 2000s, Savile made increasingly desperate attempts to protect his fading legacy and continue to hide the horrific truth. Despite persistent rumours, an investigation and efforts by survivors to raise the alarm in his lifetime, it was only after his death that their brave testimony was heard and the full extent and impact of his crimes became clear. How was he able to hide in plain sight for so long.