**BBC Suspends EastEnders Actor Jamie Borthwick Following Use of Offensive Language on Strictly Come Dancing Set**
The BBC has announced the suspension of EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick after video footage surfaced showing him using a derogatory term relating to disability on the set of Strictly Come Dancing, during filming in Blackpool. Borthwick, who has portrayed Jay Brown on the popular soap since 2006, was filmed making the comment whilst referencing the people of the Blackpool area, according to reports originally published by The Sun on Sunday.
The incident reportedly occurred last November during filming at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom, a longstanding venue for special episodes of the Strictly series. The BBC moved swiftly to comment on the matter, with a spokesperson condemning Borthwick’s choice of language, stating, “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 kind of situation.”
The fallout from the video has resonated across the public and within charity organisations. Warren Kirwan, media manager at disability equality group Scope, expressed disappointment and concern. “Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable,” he said. “It is not just ignorant and hurtful to disabled people; it has wider consequences for society as a whole. Such attitudes act as barriers for disabled people in every aspect of life, including in the workplace and day-to-day activities like shopping.”
Critics and advocates have called upon Borthwick to take responsibility for his words. Kirwan added, “We hope that Jamie takes the chance to learn more about the lived realities of disabled people and makes efforts to understand why such language causes harm. Education and reflection are crucial in such circumstances.”
Borthwick’s recent accolades make the incident all the more significant. He lifted the trophy at the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special in December 2023, partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu. Earlier that year, he received the Best Actor award at the Inside Soap Awards, where EastEnders also won Best Storyline for the moving and widely praised plot involving Lola Pearce-Brown’s brain tumour diagnosis—Borthwick’s character, Jay, was Lola’s husband in the show.
Coincidentally, the BBC’s decision comes hot on the heels of another controversy involving broadcaster Wynne Evans, best known for his role in Go.Compare advertisements and as a former Radio Wales presenter. Evans publicly apologised recently for what was termed “inappropriate language” during the launch of the latest Strictly tour, leading to his own departure from BBC engagement. He acknowledged his comment, reportedly directed at Borthwick as a nickname, was wrong, stating, “I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused.”
Both incidents have brought the topic of language and behaviour within BBC productions to the forefront, prompting renewed discussions about standards within high-profile entertainment brands. Evans stressed that while the nickname was not intended to offend or direct at women, context and perception are critical. He was given an official warning by the tour producers and decided to take time away from public commitments to reflect on his actions.
Strictly Come Dancing continues to draw large audiences, with the recent tour featuring celebrities such as Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri, actress Sarah Hadland, JLS singer JB Gill, X Factor winner Shayne Ward, and Gladiators’ Montell Douglas, along with judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse. The tour has appeared in major UK cities, drawing both avid fans and continuing debate around behaviour standards in the public eye.
BBC representatives have reaffirmed their commitment to upholding inclusive values and maintaining a safe, respectful environment across all programming. The corporation underscored its processes for dealing with misconduct, promising transparency and accountability. Public attention now turns to whether mandatory training or outreach may become part of the response for Borthwick and others involved in these matters.
The BBC and representatives for Borthwick have yet to announce a timeline for any potential return or further disciplinary measures. As scrutiny intensifies, the broadcaster faces continued pressure to maintain high standards for both its on-screen talent and presenters, reflective of the diverse audiences it serves.