Jamie Borthwick gets suspended by BBC from 'Strictly Come Dancing' after using disability-related slur

The BBC has suspended EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick from Strictly Come Dancing following his use of a disability-related slur during filming.

The incident occurred in November while the show was being filmed in Blackpool, with Borthwick allegedly using the offensive phrase to describe locals.

BBC News reported the broadcaster's official statement: “His language was entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect.” The actor, who has played Jay Brown on EastEnders since 2006, had been participating in the most recent season of Strictly Come Dancing.

Borthwick addressed the situation in a statement to The Sun on Sunday, saying: “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.”

He added, “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.”

The incident is the latest in a string of controversies surrounding Strictly Come Dancing. Last series, fellow contestant Wynne Evans faced backlash for making a misogynistic remark about his dance partner, which reportedly led to the non-renewal of his BBC Radio Wales contract.