Braless TV News Anchors Ignite Controversy: Bold Innovation or Step Too Far?
In the world of television, capturing an audience’s attention is key—but one Albanian TV station took that idea to the extreme.
Years after its debut, the decision by Zjarr TV to feature braless news anchors continues to spark debate.
Some call it a bold move in the name of free press, while others see it as a setback for women’s rights and professionalism in journalism.
Breaking Boundaries or Crossing the Line?
In 2016, Zjarr TV stunned audiences with its unconventional approach—female news anchors dressed in open jackets with nothing underneath.
The move was meant to symbolize transparency in journalism, according to the station’s owner, Ismet Drishti.
“In Albania, where the news is manipulated by political powers, the audience needed a medium that would present the information like it is—naked,” Drishti explained.
This approach was particularly shocking in Albania, a traditionally conservative nation. Under Enver Hoxha’s authoritarian rule, the country faced strict censorship for decades.
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The TV station argued that its decision was a rebellious response to Albania’s history of media suppression.
A Rising Star and the Fallout
One of Zjarr TV’s most famous news presenters, Enki Bracaj, gained widespread attention for her on-screen presence.
At just 21 years old, her daring audition—where she left her blouse unbuttoned—earned her a prime spot on the network.
“I realized that if I wanted to stand out in this tough industry, I had to be bold,” Bracaj shared.
She even sought her parents’ approval before accepting the role, emphasizing that their support was crucial in her decision.
However, controversy soon followed. When Bracaj accepted a modeling offer from Playboy, Zjarr TV let her go, citing that she had crossed the station’s boundaries.
Though she officially stated that low pay was her reason for leaving, many speculated that her Playboy deal was the real cause of her exit.
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Filling the Spotlight
Following Bracaj’s departure, the network sought a replacement and found Greta Hoxhaj, a 24-year-old presenter with previous TV experience.
Like her predecessor, Hoxhaj embraced the network’s revealing dress code and quickly rose to fame.
“For five years, I worked hard in local TV, and no one noticed me. Within three months at Zjarr TV, I became a star,” Hoxhaj said.
She downplayed the controversy, stating that her attire was simply part of the job and didn’t reflect her personal wardrobe.
The Public’s Reaction: Support or Backlash?
The station’s approach has sparked polarizing opinions. Some viewers find the method inappropriate and sexist, while others argue that it’s a clever tactic to attract more viewers.
“It’s pathetic to accept this just to be on screen,” commented one critic online. Meanwhile, another defended the station’s approach, saying, “If it helps people pay more attention to the news, what’s the harm?”
The controversy even extended beyond Albania, with Venezuelan news presenters also experimenting with undressing on-air to celebrate their country’s sports victories.
Where Should the Line Be Drawn?
Despite the uproar, feminist organizations and journalism unions in Albania have remained relatively silent on the matter. However, some media professionals have spoken out.
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“Nudity cannot resolve the crisis in the media,” said Aleksander Cipa, President of the Union of Albanian Journalists.
“The industry should focus on improving journalism rather than resorting to sensationalism.”
Hoxhaj, however, remains unfazed by the criticism.
“I love my job, and I live a beautiful life full of love and support,” she shared. “People praise me, call into my show with compliments, and I receive so many flower bouquets—it’s amazing!”
Final Thoughts: A Clever Strategy or an Ethical Dilemma?
Zjarr TV’s approach raises a critical question: Is this an innovative way to capture audiences, or does it undermine women in journalism?
Another Zjarr TV newsreader. The story was on the Albanian potato crop…or was it Syria. Did I even have sound on? pic.twitter.com/IrUggDTfdh
— A.C. Edwards (@thesecurityguy1) February 28, 2016
What’s your take? Do you think this is a smart move in modern media, or should there be stricter standards for professionalism in news broadcasting?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
