EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick apologises after using slur at Blackpool Strictly show

Jamie Borthwick(Image: ITV)

EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick has issued a grovelling apology after using a slur about disabled people.

The incident took place around six months ago when Mr Borthwick was competing on Strictly Come Dancing. Reports have also suggested that Mr Borthwick has been suspended from EastEnders, where he has played Jay Brown since 2006.

Mr Borthwick reportedly used the word to describe people from Blackpool. Strictly traditionally broadcasts an episode from the glamourous Blackpool Tower Ballroom, the Mirror reports.

The alleged use of the term, which is regarded as a slur for disabled people, came in a video which was reportedly shared with his friends.

Disability charity Scope has condemned the incident, joined by a local politician in Blackpool.

The actor has since issued an apology 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.

Jamie Borthwick(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes)

“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.”

Mr Borthwick then apologised to the people of Blackpool, and once again expressed his regret over what he said.

The Sun has also reported that Mr Borthwick has been suspended from EastEnders.

When asked for comment, 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.”

Mr Borthwick appeared on Strictly last year, paired with professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas.

The pair featured on the show alongside Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans, 53, who would become the focus of criticism after running his hands over his dance partner Katya Jones.

Mr Evans and Katya Jones dismissed the move as a joke, but Wynne drew further scrutiny after comments he made behind the scenes of both the BBC show and the live tour.

Mr Borthwick’s close friendship with Mr Evans saw him impacted by the scandal.

The incident is believed to have happened in November last year while the show was recording from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

The long-running BBC show has had a difficult few years as it has been plagued by a series of scandals.

In 2023 actor Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice dropped out of the competition following rumours of problems backstage.

The year after the incident drew significant media attention as the actor accused Mr Pernice of abusive behaviour.

The BBC conducted an investigation and Giovanni quit the show. The 2025 season is tipped to get underway in just two months time.