Morrissey Slams BBC Smiths Documentary and Johnny Marr

Morrissey has accused the BBC of excluding him from a radio program about The Smiths scheduled for July 13. In a deleted post on Morrissey Central, the singer claimed the production is critical of him while depicting former bandmate Johnny Marr as an “angel” and features “slanderous” remarks from producer Grant Showbiz.

The singer published these allegations in a lengthy post titled “The Art Of Forgery.” According to the text, the BBC warned that the upcoming program is critical of Morrissey.

Morrissey claimed he was not invited to participate in the project. He described the narrative as a predictable plot where he is cast as the “executioner” while Marr is framed as an “angel.”

Did You Know? Morrissey disputed a long-standing story that he left a note on Andy Rourke’s car stating “you are fired,” asserting he had no right to fire Rourke because he had not hired him.

Why is Morrissey criticizing the BBC program?

Morrissey alleges the program ignores the truth and relies on “tired lies.” He claims the production is part of a pattern of documentaries where Johnny Marr takes center stage as the face of the band’s discord.

The singer also called out producer Grant Showbiz. Morrissey described Showbiz’s contributions to the program as “slanderous,” noting he previously held the producer in high regard.

Morrissey argued that the BBC’s approach ignores his role as the primary creative force. He stated that the lyrics, song titles, album artwork, and vocal melodies were his vision alone.

What are the disputes between Morrissey and Johnny Marr?

Morrissey claimed that Marr has “intentionally divided” the band’s audience into opposing factions. He further alleged that Marr legally claimed the Smiths’ trademark name despite the name being devised by Morrissey.

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The singer accused Marr of spending his life trying to “kill” him through public name-calling. He suggested Marr’s focus on the past is a search for relevance.

Morrissey also referenced a 2015 conflict with The Guardian, claiming the outlet focused its “malice” on him. He cited writer Gareth Roberts, who recently stated that removing Morrissey from The Smiths would leave “Haircut 100.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the tension over the Smiths’ trademark and the narrative control of their origin story creates a significant divide in how the band’s legacy is preserved. The struggle between legal ownership and creative attribution often complicates future archival releases and reunions.

What could happen next for The Smiths’ legacy?

The ongoing friction may continue to hinder potential collaborations. In 2024, the former bandmates have already been involved in disputes regarding a deluxe reissue and a reunion tour.

The Rise and Fall of The Smiths- BBC documentary 1999

Future retrospectives could remain polarized depending on which members are invited to participate. The conflict over the trademark may lead to further legal or public disagreements over the use of the band’s name.

Morrissey’s public disputes with the BBC and The Guardian suggest a possible trend of increased volatility surrounding the band’s 40-year history.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the BBC program about The Smiths air?
The radio program is scheduled to air on July 13.

Who does Morrissey accuse of making slanderous comments?
Morrissey identified Smiths producer Grant Showbiz as the person making slanderous remarks in the program.

What is the dispute regarding the band’s trademark?
Morrissey claims that Johnny Marr legally claimed the Smiths’ trademark name even though Morrissey devised the name.

Do you think the legacy of a band is defined more by its legal ownership or its creative vision?