EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick recently apologised for using a disabled slur. It has been reported his job at the soap is at risk over the scandal
EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick’s soap role ‘at risk’ over disabled slur(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick’s job at the long-running soap is reportedly at risk after he used a derogatory term about disabled people. The 30-year-old actor, who has appeared on EastEnders since 2006, in which he plays Jay Brown, reportedly used offensive language in a video that was allegedly shared with friends.
It was reported that the star was recorded using a derogatory word to describe locals in Blackpool, where BBC show Strictly Come Dancing filmed a glitzy live episode from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. The word he used is a derogatory term regarded as a disabled slur. The star sparked condemnation from the disability charity Scope and a local politician in Blackpool.
It is reported that footage was made of Jamie using the word, which was then sent to one of his friends. He has since issued a grovelling apology for using the offensive slur.
Jamie apologised for using the slur(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
And now, it’s been said his apology might not be enough to end the scandal. An insider claimed how his character hasn’t been part of a ‘central role in the show for a while’.
“And with a new boss in Ben Wadey who only recently took the helm and with the scandal taking place so soon into his tenure feeling is that Jamie’s place on the show could be at serious risk,” the source claimed to The Sun.
He recently issued a grovelling apology which had been shared by The Sun on Sunday, stating: “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.
It has been reported his job at EastEnders is at risk(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
“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.” He went on to issue an apology to the people of Blackpool and reiterate his regret over his words.
After the publication claimed that he was suspended from EastEnders, a BBC spokesperson told The Mirror: “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.”
Last year, Jamie appeared on Strictly where he was paired with professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas. They featured alongside Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans, 53, who sparked scandal over his actions on the show.
