Teen apologizes to CBC reporter Megan Batchelor for unwanted kiss
17-year-old regrets behaviour during live report from the Squamish Music Festival
The stranger who interrupted a live television report during CBC Vancouver's 6 p.m. broadcast Friday by kissing reporter Megan Batchelor has apologized for his behaviour.
Daniel Davies, 17, reached out to Batchelor on Twitter Monday, identified himself and said he regrets his actions.
"At the moment I thought it was kind of a joke, then I stepped in your shoes, that's when I kind of realized that it all was not a joke at all. That's your career — obviously it's also your body and you have complete control of that and without anyone else's consent, they do not have the right to do anything to anyone," Davies told Batchelor.
Davies interrupted Batchelor's live television report from the Squamish Music Festival Friday evening. Batchelor then filed a complaint with the Squamish RCMP.
"Until I took a step back and I kind of put myself into your shoes, that's really when I realized it all kind of just hit me," said Davies.
"Honestly, I wish I actually understood that before I did it, but like I said, I made the mistake already and I want to make the best of the situation."
Batchelor said she accepted the apology and hoped it would make others think twice before interrupting television reporters on the job.
"Just hearing those words, it's exactly what I wanted to hear, and in all of this, I didn't want anyone to lose their job or get a criminal record, I just want people to take a second, and just think of the impact on that person. Just because I'm standing in front of a camera doesn't mean I don't have feelings and I'm not focused and I'm not trying to be a professional," said Batchelor.
Batchelor said she believes Davies is remorseful and has learned his lesson.
CBC News senior producer Brenda Murray said the public broadcaster appreciates the apology.
"In addition to the measures we've already taken to make sure our reporters feel safe in the field, the CBC is planning training courses in the fall, because everyone deserves to feel safe wherever they work," said Murray.