The footage from the Albanian channel spread like wildfire, and videos of attractive news anchors went viral on social media. One of the videos featuring the stripped anchors has racked up nearly 700,000 views on YouTube and continues to attract attention.
While many internet users have sought to find out where to watch the controversial programme, others are raising their voices, demanding the media take more responsibility in the fight for respect and equality.
‘It’s pathetic that you agreed to this just to be on screen,’ commented one internet critic, while another labelled the move “outrageous” and “disgustingly sexist”.
Images of Greta Hodjai frequently appear on Facebook, causing constant controversy. Sometimes these discussions spill over into a broader conversation about how TV presenters in general dress.
‘There are too many women on TV whose cleavage is too low on various shows. On the last episode of AGT, two women wore dresses that were VERY questionable. I don’t care what women wear in everyday life, but there should be stricter standards on TV,’ commented one viewer.
However, opinions were divided.
‘I don’t see anything wrong with this picture. It will make especially men be more attentive to the news,’ wrote another person.
‘Everyone is free to change the channel.’
Interestingly, the reaction of feminist groups and journalist associations in Albania has been rather restrained. Zjarr TV did not provoke much reaction from these organisations.
‘There is a diversity of choice and everyone is free to switch the channel,’ says Leonard Olli, a journalist and public relations specialist in the capital Tirana.
However, Aleksandar Tsipa, president of the Union of Albanian Journalists, took a more critical stance towards the channel’s tactic of using semi-nude news presenters. ‘Nudity cannot solve the crisis in the media, which will go to any lengths to survive,’ he said.
There is never a shortage of bouquets
And in this case, the star of the show, Hojai herself, seems to have been only slightly taken aback by the criticism. In an interview, Hojai said that she hardly pays attention to the endless comments and compliments directed at her.
‘It’s important to me that I’m doing well, both in my work and in my newfound fame. I am living a beautiful life filled with love,’ she shared.
Everyone in her neighbourhood adores her, showering her with compliments and following her career closely. Many even give advice for every episode of her TV show. ‘I get countless messages in my inbox and many viewers call during the Zbardi show to praise me. There’s nothing more wonderful than that! Also, I never lack for bouquets of flowers – even twice a week!’
Are you a fan of Greta’s unique style or do you think there should be more boundaries in the presenters’ presentation of news?
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