A coroner has concluded that there is "no causal link" between Steve Dymond's participation in The Jeremy Kyle Show and his subsequent passing. Dymond, 63, was discovered deceased at his Portsmouth residence seven days after filming for the ITV program in May 2019.
The incident revolved around a lie detector test administered on the show, where Dymond faced accusations of infidelity from his former fiancée. This event occurred over 5 years ago, in May 2019, and led to significant consequences for the long-running program.
The Jeremy Kyle Show, which had been a staple of British daytime television for 15 years, faced immediate cancellation following Dymond's death. This decision sparked a broader conversation about the ethics of reality TV and the treatment of vulnerable participants.
During the inquest, footage from the unaired episode was presented, revealing Jeremy Kyle's confrontational approach towards Dymond. The host was seen challenging the visibly distressed guest after the lie detector results were revealed.
"Be a man, grow a pair of balls and tell her the God-damn truth"
Kyle, when called to testify, defended his actions and the show's methodology. He stated, "I think the show had been on air for 15 years, and I believe the approach for conflict resolution was always the same. Yes, it was direct, but it was empathetic, it was honest."
The presenter also clarified his role, explaining that he was not involved in guest selection and that "aftercare" was not his responsibility. This statement highlights the complex production structure behind such programs and the distribution of responsibilities among staff.
It's worth noting that lie detector tests, while controversial, are not considered reliable evidence in most courts. The show's use of such tests has been a point of contention among critics.
The incident led to new guidelines for the treatment of participants in UK reality shows, emphasizing the importance of aftercare and psychological support. This development underscores the lasting impact of Dymond's case on the television industry.
As the inquest continues, this case remains a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate about the ethics and responsibilities of reality television production.