Scoop is a 2024 Netflix movie starring Scarlett Johansson as a journalist caught in a high-stakes scandal. While the film feels real, it’s actually based on true events specifically the infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew about his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The movie follows how journalist Emily Maitlis (played by Johansson) and her team secured the explosive interview, which led to Prince Andrew stepping back from royal duties. Although the characters and drama are real, some scenes are dramatized for entertainment purposes. For example, tense conversations or behind-the-scenes moments may be exaggerated, but the core facts, like the prince’s controversial answers, are accurate.

So, Scoop isn’t fully fictional; it’s a dramatization of true events. It demonstrates how journalism operates during major scandals, blending real-life history with cinematic storytelling. If you’re curious about the real interview, you can still watch clips of the original BBC broadcast online!

Contents

The True Story:

The film is rooted in the controversial 2019 BBC television interview of Prince Andrew, conducted by journalist Emily Maitlis. It sheds light on Prince Andrew’s ties with convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein and addresses allegations of sexual assault, which the Prince denies. The interview, described as a catastrophic event for Prince Andrew, marked a turning point in public perception.

Adaptation:

Peter Moffat’s screenplay is an adaptation of “Scoops: Behind the Scenes of the BBC’s Most Shocking Interviews” by Sam McAlister, a former Newsnight editor instrumental in securing the interview.

Production Details:

Announced in July 2022, “Scoop” began principal photography in early 2023. Gillian Anderson embodies Emily Maitlis, while Rufus Sewell portrays Prince Andrew, offering viewers a glimpse into the events that led to the infamous interview.

Reception:

The film has been well-received, with a 78% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 61 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews.

Conclusion:

Scoop is inspired by true events but dramatized for film. It recreates Prince Andrew’s infamous BBC interview, blending facts with Hollywood flair. Want the real story? Check the original 2019 interview.