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Strictly star Jamie Borthwick suspended by the BBC for 'unacceptable' remark
Strictly star Jamie Borthwick suspended by the BBC for 'unacceptable' remark
The Eastenders actor has been suspended following an offensive comment made during his time on Strictly Come Dancing
Jamie Borthwick has apologised for his comment
(Image: (Image: BBC) )
Jamie Borthwick, known for his long-standing role as Jay Brown on EastEnders, has been suspended by the BBC following the use of a derogatory term aimed at people with disabilities. The incident reportedly took place in November during the recording of the Strictly Come Dancing's special Blackpool episode, according to The Sun on Sunday.
In a statement, the BBC described Mr Borthwick's comment as "entirely unacceptable" and "in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect". The actor has since apologised, expressing regret for "any offence and upset" caused by his remark.
Disability equality charity Scope responded to the incident by urging Borthwick to reflect on his words and take steps toward greater understanding.
The charity's media manager Warren Kirwan said: "We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people's lives."
The 30-year-old has been a part of the EastEnders cast since 2006. He recently appeared in the latest series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnered with professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas.
He quickly became a fan favourite after winning the Strictly Christmas special in 2023 with partner Nancy Xu, scoring a perfect 40 for his Quickstep.
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Jamie, one of the soap's longest running actors, won a British Soap Award for best dramatic performance from a young actor, and an Inside Soap Award for best actor.
In his statement to the Sun on Sunday, Borthwick said: "I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.'
He added: "It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning.
"That is on me completely. Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did."
It wasn't the first controversy to hit Strictly Come Dancing's 2024 season. Jamie's co-star Wynne Evans apologised for using "inappropriate language" during the launch of the Strictly Come Dancing tour.
The Welsh opera singer, known for the insurance advertisements, confirmed last week that he will no longer be a BBC Radio Wales presenter. For the latest TV and showbiz news sign up to our newsletter
In a statement issued to social media, Wynne told his 92,000 followers: "My beloved Wynners, From the very depths of my heart – thank you.
"These past few months, your love has been the light in my darkest days. Every message, every word of encouragement, every moment you stood by me has carried me through more than you could ever know.
"It breaks my heart to say the BBC has decided not to renew my contract so I won't be returning to my radio show. I'm gutted."
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He added that he would be launching his own daily show, The Wynne Evans Show, available on Alexa and Google smart speakers.
