Jamie Borthwick Suspended by BBC After Controversial Slur on Strictly Set
So, let’s talk about what’s been dominating headlines—Jamie Borthwick, the long-standing EastEnders actor we’ve seen grow up on our screens as Jay Brown, has found himself at the centre of a storm. The BBC has officially suspended him after a video surfaced in which he used a deeply offensive ableist slur while backstage on the Strictly Come Dancing set in Blackpool. The comment, caught on video and reportedly sent privately to a friend, showed Jamie laughing and describing locals with a derogatory term aimed at disabled people. And now, the fallout has been swift and public.
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Honestly, it’s shocking. This isn’t just a one-off slip of the tongue or something taken out of context—it was clear, caught on camera, and widely circulated. Even more concerning is that the video appears to have been filmed during what should’ve been a high point in Jamie’s career: celebrating his inclusion in the Strictly tour alongside co-star Wynne Evans. Instead, that moment of excitement turned into a career-threatening controversy.
Jamie has since issued a lengthy apology, admitting he used the word without fully understanding its meaning, and expressing his “sincere and wholehearted” regret. He called it a moment of excitement that got the better of him. But, as many have rightly pointed out—excitement doesn’t excuse ignorance, especially when your words carry influence. Disability charity Scope was quick to condemn the remark, emphasizing how language like this perpetuates stigma and real-world consequences for disabled individuals.
What really stings is that Blackpool isn’t just a filming location for Strictly —it’s iconic. It’s a beloved part of the show’s tradition, a city that welcomes cast and crew with open arms every year. So to hear one of the show’s stars turn around and insult the very people who host them is hurtful on so many levels. Blackpool’s local leaders and residents have made it clear they’re appalled, and rightly so.
The BBC hasn’t minced words either. In their statement, they called the language “entirely unacceptable” and made it clear that suspending Jamie was necessary while an internal investigation unfolds. This wasn’t just a PR move; it’s part of a broader effort to show they won’t tolerate behaviour that undermines their values of inclusivity and respect.
This scandal also adds to what’s been a problematic pattern for Jamie and his tour companion Wynne Evans. Earlier this year, the two were reportedly reprimanded for sharing a crude joke involving a sex toy video while on tour in Birmingham. That incident didn’t cause nearly the same waves, but now it feels like the warning signs were already there.
There’s no denying Jamie has talent. He’s been a staple on EastEnders for nearly two decades and has built a solid fanbase. But right now, he’s facing a turning point. Whether his apology is accepted or not, this situation should serve as a stark reminder to everyone in the public eye—words have weight. Respect, especially for marginalized groups, must be non-negotiable.
Let’s hope Jamie uses this time not just to lay low, but to genuinely educate himself and reflect on the broader impact of his actions. Because this is bigger than just one actor’s mistake—it’s about shaping a culture that refuses to tolerate casual discrimination, no matter the setting.
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