The BBC is facing a backlash after hiring male writer Jeff Pope to work on a new drama about the murder of Sarah Everard.
The two-part series will tell the story of Sarah Everard, who was kidnapped, raped and killed in 2021 by Detective Constable Wayne Couzens in London.
The case shocked Britain and led to great public anger and debate about women’s safety.
Now an open letter signed by around 400 female screenwriters has raised concerns over the BBC’s decision.
The authors say they were shocked that a man was chosen to write such a sensitive story.
However, they believe that women should have a stronger voice in telling stories about violence against women.
The letter says the case is not just about one crime, but also about wider issues such as misogyny and trust in the system that is supposed to protect people.
Some people also disagree with the criticism, saying that writing jobs should be based on talent, not gender.
Jeff Pope, who wrote other true crime dramas, has defended himself.
He says he treats real-life stories with care and respect, focusing on the people affected.
The BBC says it has met with writers to hear their concerns and says it remains committed to supporting more female writers in the industry.
