US EditionEastEnders' Jamie Borthwick Axed From BBC Soap After 19 Years - Liverpool Echo
Jamie Borthwick, after a 19-year tenure on EastEnders, was removed following suspension over an ableist slur used during Strictly Come Dancing, prompting criticism from disability advocates and officials.
- BBC confirmed that Jamie Borthwick will not return to EastEnders after his suspension following a leaked Strictly Come Dancing video in June 2025.
- The leaked footage, which spread rapidly on social media, revealed a behind-the-scenes Strictly Come Dancing video from June 2025 containing an ableist slur referencing Blackpool, triggering public criticism.
- The BBC condemned Jamie Borthwick's language as `entirely unacceptable` and said it 'in no way reflects the values or standards' they expect, while Borthwick apologized on Sunday expressing deep regret.
- Borthwick's final EastEnders episode aired on 19 August 2025, and his exit came without a formal storyline, surprising fans after nearly two decades as Jay Brown.
- Blackpool council officials and disability groups demanded a direct apology and awareness training, while Scope urged Borthwick to 'reflect on what he said, educate himself and do better'.
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English actor Jamie Borthwick has been forced to leave the BBC series EastEnders after nineteen years. The 31-year-old actor became controversial after calling the entire population of Blackpool "mentally retarded."
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources22
Leaning Left7Leaning Right5Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Center
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources are Center
40% Center
L 35%
C 40%
R 25%
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