A BBC News presenter has apologized after comparing co presenter George Alagiah to a chimpanzee live on air. He then jokingly asked viewers if they could see any likeness between the chimpanzee and Sri Lankan-born Mr Alagiah.
“This was a light-hearted comment. George and I are friends and I’d be horrified if anyone has interpreted this in any other way. I regret if I have unintentionally caused any offense,” The Sun quoted him, as saying.
Earlier, Eakin was discussing a story about a stone-throwing chimp at a Swedish zoo when he made the remark at the end of the 10 pm bulletin. He said, “Can you see any likeness?” while handing over to co-anchor George Alagiah.
The 53-year-old at first looked a little taken aback, but quickly laughed off the remark. Mediawatch chief John Beyer said the remark was ‘inappropriate’ and should not have been broadcast. TUC race equality officer Wilf Sullivan said: “I can see why people might have taken offense. If Chris Eakin was doing it in a way to refer to George then it would be a bit out of order.”
The BBC said it had received only one complaint about the joke.
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