One day in March 2003, Granada news presenter (and Factory Records founder) Tony Wilson failed to appear on screen for the evening's scheduled Granada Report. The problem? Unaware that his remarks were being broadcast during the afternoon news bulletin, Wilson had launched into a vitriolic outburst at production staff -- live on air: "None of the f---ing lights are working, guys!" he exclaimed. "Camera one you have no red f---ing light on..."

[Scores of viewers called to complain and the network promptly issued a statement: "Anthony Wilson and Granada Television wish to apologise unreservedly for any offence caused to viewers. We would like to stress the incident was entirely unintentional and Anthony was not aware his remarks were being broadcast."]

[In 2004, CNN's coverage of John Kerry's acceptance speech at the Democratic Convention was marred by the accidental broadcast of expletives from a technician. Convention centre director Don Mischer was overheard complaining that balloons in the hall were not being released quickly enough. "Go, balloons. Go, balloons. Go, balloons," he exclaimed. "Come on, guys! Let's move it. Jesus. We need more balloons... Go, confetti. Go, confetti. Go, confetti. I want more balloons... Why the hell is nothing falling? What the (beep) are you guys doing up there? More balloons. More balloons..." A CNN announcer later apologised for the error.]