BBC cancels KSI’s show following backlash over racial slur. Controversy sparks discussions about accountability and responsible platform use. Updates on the situation and KSI’s social media break.
In a surprising turn of events, the BBC has decided to cancel YouTube sensation KSI’s own entertainment show after he faced fierce backlash for using a racial slur in a Sidemen video. The decision comes as a shock to many, considering the influencer’s immense popularity and success on online platforms. As per the report of The Sun.
KSI, known for his transition from influencer to boxer, was reportedly in talks with the BBC for a lucrative opportunity to showcase his talent on mainstream television. However, the broadcaster made a U-turn on their decision following the release of a Sidemen video where KSI uttered a racial slur, sparking an intense wave of criticism from his shocked fanbase.
According to an insider, the BBC chose not to proceed with the program in light of the controversy. The corporation could not be seen as endorsing such behaviour, and executives were equally taken aback and disappointed by the racial slur, echoing the sentiment of the general public.
KSI, who remains associated with the BBC Sounds App, promptly issued a heartfelt apology for his offensive remark. Expressing genuine remorse, he acknowledged the pain and suffering caused by his words, vowing to educate himself and uplift marginalized voices instead of perpetuating discrimination. However, this apology couldn’t salvage his TV project, which had already been hanging in the balance.
An industry insider revealed that part of the reason the BBC was interested in collaborating with KSI was due to his edginess and massive youth following. However, the incident has left BBC executives questioning whether he might be too controversial for their platform. The broadcaster is considering the potential negative influence on young viewers and is currently deliberating on the future of their collaboration with the popular YouTuber.
This controversy isn’t the first time KSI has found himself embroiled in hot water. In a previous incident, he and the Sidemen group faced criticism for staging a spoof of the Channel 4 gameshow Countdown, where they used letters to spell out a racist term. The incident caused immediate backlash on social media, with individuals who had experienced abuse using the term expressing their hurt and outrage.
KSI’s apology, along with his decision to step away from social media, was met with mixed reactions. Fans expressed disappointment and demanded accountability, while others acknowledged his acknowledgment of the mistake and hoped for growth and learning from the incident. The duration of KSI’s break from social media and his eventual return remain undisclosed at this time.
The BBC’s decision to cancel KSI’s show after his use of a racial slur underscores the importance of accountability in the media industry. While KSI has issued apologies and expressed remorse, the repercussions of his actions serve as a reminder that public figures bear a responsibility to use their platforms responsibly and not perpetuate discrimination. As the situation continues to unfold, the future of KSI’s collaboration with the BBC hangs in the balance, leaving fans and industry watchers awaiting further developments but for now it is cancelled.