EastEnders Star Jamie Borthwick Suspended by BBC for Disabled Slur in Blackpool

Jamie Borthwick, known for his role as Jay Brown on EastEnders, has been suspended by the BBC after a video surfaced showing him using a derogatory slur against disabled people while filming Strictly Come Dancing in Blackpool. The offensive comment, reportedly made backstage during rehearsals, drew widespread condemnation, including from the disability charity Scope, which urged Borthwick to educate himself and reflect on his language. Borthwick issued a public apology, expressing deep remorse and stating he did not fully understand the term's meaning at the time. The BBC stated that the language was completely unacceptable and does not reflect their values, emphasizing their commitment to robust processes in addressing such issues. This suspension follows a recent BBC decision to drop Wynne Evans from the Strictly tour after inappropriate language allegations. The incident has sparked broader conversations about attitudes toward disabled people and the importance of respectful language in the entertainment industry.