EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick suspended by BBC after using ableist slur
Borthwick made the comment in a video recorded last year, while he was backstage for Strictly Come Dancing.
Jay Brown star Jamie Borthwick has been suspended from his role on EastEnders by the BBC, after a video came to light in which he used an ableist slur.
Borthwick, who has starred on the BBC One soap since 2006, was speaking in a video captured during his time on Strictly Come Dancing last year, which was reportedly sent to a friend.
The details of the video were shared by The Sun, with the publication reporting that he appeared in it with Strictly co-star Wynne Evans, as the two celebrated being selected for show's live tour.
In the video, filmed at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, Borthwick used the slur, saying: "Blackpool by the way. Absolute m********s."
The BBC told The Sun in a statement: "This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC. We have robust processes in place for this."
RadioTimes.com has approached the BBC for further comment.
Borthwick, who has now been suspended, told the publication: "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. I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused.
"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 was wrong.
"When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment. Again, that is no excuse. But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views, or who I am.
"I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself. The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers and cast members. I know they will be again for this year’s show and those in years to come. I am truly sorry."
Borthwick and his Strictly Come Dancing professional dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas were eliminated from the show in week 10, one week after the Blackpool show.
He didn't take a break from EastEnders filming while appearing on the dance competition series, as the two are filmed nearby and he was able to split his time between the two.
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Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.
