Episode details

Radio 4,30 Jul 2026,30 mins,

Your Next Listen: Top Comment

Strong Message Here
Contains some strong language, some scenes of a sexual nature and some scenes which some viewers may find upsetting.

Available for 29 days

While Armando takes a well-earned break, former Strong Message Here guest and BBC social media investigations correspondent Marianna Spring introduces her podcast, Top Comment. From chasing pickpockets to unmasking predators, vigilantism has become one of the biggest trends on social media. On this episode Matt and Marianna discuss how the age of streaming has added a new layer of risk to content like this, with the potential for devastating consequences including reputational damage and even legal repercussions. Also this week, as national media fangirls over Andy Burnham's TikTok persona, we ask what the new prime minister is doing right online. Is social media now the ultimate test of a politician's authenticity, and could cosying up to influencers set a dangerous precedent in terms of transparency and accountability for those in positions of power. Plus - Clavicular can't run in those little high heels, and the foxes have their say! If you enjoyed this episode, you can listen and subscribe to Top Comment on BBC Sounds, with new episodes released every Thursday. Top Comment is hosted by Marianna Spring and Matt Shea. The series producer is Laurie Kalus. The social producer is Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The editor is Justine Lang. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. If you want to get in touch about something that's popped up on your feed, our email address is topcomment@bbc.co.uk or you can send us a WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.

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