The studio window as prism

Andrew Marr (his emphasis):

'... Simon Schama, one of our great historians...'

I think you are mistaking celebrity for importance, Mr Marr.

Being on the box all the time neither indicates nor improves the scholarly standing of a telegenic journeyman academic. It merely increases his ubiquity and recognition level among the TV-watching laity.

Do try get out of your cosy BBC studio a bit more, Mr Marr.