Jamie Borthwick, a 30-year-old star known for his role as Jay Brown in the BBC’s long-running soap EastEnders, has been suspended. This decision follows the release of a video of him in which he used an ableist slur. Borthwick joined EastEnders in 2006 and has become one of the show’s longest-serving actors. Most recently, he received criticism after he made an ill-conceived joke about the northern town of Blackpool at the launch of the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour.
The crash occurred on January 16, 2025, in the midst of a bustling celebration. At that event, Borthwick was excited to announce the new tour with his dancing partner, Michelle Tsiakkas. In the video, he responded to his ordeal of surviving Blackpool week of Strictly Come Dancing. His comments were not only offensive but dangerous.
After the ordeal, Borthwick apologized for his statement. He issued a statement 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. I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused.”
The BBC moved fast to make things right. They pulled Borthwick from all of his other obligations, like his weekly radio show and appearances promoting the Strictly Live tour. He accepted the ruling and added, “I’ve come to an understanding with the BBC. I’ll be withdrawing from my radio show, the Strictly Live tour, and my other public engagements to take care of my health.” I deeply regret the harm that my unwanted and inappropriate behavior has done. I plan to use this time for some self-reflection.
Borthwick’s comments have been widely condemned as callous. Warren Kirwan, a spokesperson for the BBC, remarked, “Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable.” This situation has raised necessary discussions about intentional communication during public engagement. Imagine how critical this is for the leaders of the entertainment industry.
Borthwick is still an influence behind the scenes, his presence still felt in EastEnders today. Most recently, he won the nation over as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. His run came to an end in week 10, finishing in seventh place overall in the competition. Fortunately, he saw success in the end, winning the Strictly 2023 Christmas special with professional dancer Nancy Xu.
Let’s hope that Borthwick is taking time away from public life for some serious self-reflection. In the meantime, fans and fellow cast members alike hope to hear that he’s finally ready to grace screens and stages again. His dedication to righting this wrong should be a call to action for all those who hold or aspire to public office, where accountability must always be present.