Big Brother (Aus) contestant not told of father's death

[Bobblehead]

A decision by the makers of Big Brother to not tell a contestant her father has died has been condemned as inhumane, unethical and psychologically damaging.

Contestant Emma's father Raymond Cornell died last week and his funeral was held on Monday in Adelaide, but the 24-year-old is still unaware of his death.

link

The reason given is...

Producers of Big Brother have refused to move from their position, stating that "it was the wish of the family" that Mr Cornell's death be kept from Emma.

I think that with something like this they must let her know in private. Something of this magnitude is far more important than a reality show. Even if he family did wish for her not to be told, she is 24 and deserves to make her own decision.

[jolinar of malkshor]

Agreed. Especially if she missed the funeral.

[TheyCallMeBruce]

of all the crazy lawsuits, I think this one is one of those rare cases that warrants one. I know I would sue the producers.

[ericschand]

I can't find the link right now, but it was the dying father's wish
that she not be told. He didn't want her to know until the Big
Brother thing was done.

Here's another article saying she was in on the decision beforehand.
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=269236

And, Big Brother website has a note from her brother saying, in part,
"Emma and I have maintained a close friendship for many years. We have previously and recently in 'lock down', discussed the possibility of dad’s death thoroughly. I can confirm with absolute confidence that Emma has prepared herself and her views have been considered in the family’s decision-making process."

Also, "Rest assured that the family has made arrangements to postpone dad’s final service until Emma departs the house to ensure Emma is still given the opportunity to participate. As you are aware the funeral has already taken place however the family will reconvene with Emma to lay dads ashes to rest."

The producers of the show are only following the family instructions.

ers

[Bobblehead]

The original article I linked doesn't give any of that additional info.

However, I still think they need to let the contestant know. It just seems like the right thing to do.

[BlackArcher101]

Originally Posted by Bobblehead

However, I still think they need to let the contestant know. It just seems like the right thing to do.

Hah, and then be sued by other family members.... It's a lose-lose situation for the tv network.

[Winsor_Pilates]

She should sue her family. I can't blame the network for following their orders, especially if the father himself asked for this.

[Tron_fdc]

Just wait for the ratings when they tell her....on camera of course.

[Flashpoint]

Originally Posted by Tron_fdc

Just wait for the ratings when they tell her....on camera of course.

Exactly. No such thing as "bad controversy" when it comes to ratings.