Viewers hit out at new BBC drama Apple Tree Yard after graphic rape scenes in opening episode
VIEWERS have hit out at BBC1’s new drama Apple Tree Yard over a graphic rape scene.
Dozens of people and a rape charity have complained about the violent sexual attack on Dr Yvonne Carmichael, played by Emily Watson, 50.
The actress is seen being viciously slapped across the face twice after being unable to fight off her attacker before being pinned down and raped on a sofa.
The 36-second “harrowing” clip took many by surprise after the erotic thriller had featured five minutes of explicit romps in the first hour.
Telly watchdog Ofcom was last night assessing whether to launch a formal investigation after viewers branded it “sick”.
One viewer tweeted that it was “too much, very unsettling. I feel sick now.”
And Rape Crisis England and Wales spokeswoman Katie Russell said many people will have been distressed by the “harrowing” scene.
The 36-second clip at the end of the first episode, also starring Ben Chaplin, came after the erotic thriller featured five minutes of explicit romps just after the 9pm watershed.
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The Sun revealed last week that the four-part adaptation of Louise Doughty’s best-seller would spark controversy.
Yesterday the BBC said it had broadcast a warning at the start and gave its action line number for any viewers affected.
A spokeswoman said: "The rape scene is an integral part of the leading character’s story, faithful to the text of Louise Doughty's best-selling novel.
"The drama goes on to raise important, complex questions about the consequences of sexual violence, exploring the emotional and psychological implications for her.
"It transmitted in a post watershed slot and there was a warning prior to broadcast and the BBC action line was given at the end for any viewers who were affected."