BBC Upholds Complaint Against Presenter Martine Croxall Over Pregnant People Broadcast

The BBC has formally upheld complaints against news presenter Martine Croxall. This decision follows a live broadcast where she altered scripted language about pregnancy. The incident has sparked a significant public debate about impartiality and language.

According to the BBC’s executive complaints unit, twenty complaints were received and investigated. The ruling centered on Croxall’s substitution of the term “pregnant people” with “women” during a news segment. Her delivery included a noticeable eyebrow raise that viewers interpreted in various ways.

Examining the Broadcast Moment That Went Viral

The incident occurred during a summer news report. Croxall was discussing research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine about heatwave risks.

She stated, “Malcolm Mistry, who was involved in the research, says that the aged, pregnant people… women… and those with pre-existing health conditions need to take precautions.” The pause and word substitution, combined with her facial expression, quickly gained attention online.

The BBC’s complaints unit found the combination of language change and expression problematic. They noted it could be interpreted as indicating a viewpoint on trans identity controversies. This interpretation violated the broadcaster’s strict impartiality guidelines.

Broader Implications for Media and Language Standards

This case highlights ongoing tensions around evolving language norms. The term “pregnant people” has emerged as inclusive language acknowledging trans men and non-binary individuals who can become pregnant. Traditional language exclusively uses “women” for pregnancy contexts.

BBC management conducted discussions with Croxall and the editorial team involved. These conversations reinforced the corporation’s impartiality requirements. Presenters must avoid any appearance of personal views on controversial topics.

The incident attracted commentary from prominent figures including author JK Rowling. Rowling publicly praised Croxall’s word substitution, calling her “my new favourite BBC presenter.” This endorsement further amplified the segment’s viral reach.

According to Reuters coverage of the incident, the BBC acknowledged the scripting was “clumsy.” However, the corporation maintained that presenters must maintain neutrality in delivery regardless of script quality.

Navigating Modern Broadcasting Challenges

Live television presents constant challenges for broadcasters. Spontaneous reactions to awkward phrasing can quickly become controversial. Every facial expression and word choice is subject to intense scrutiny in today’s digital environment.

The complaints unit noted viewers interpreted Croxall’s expression differently. Some saw “disgust, ridicule, contempt or exasperation.” This variety of interpretations complicated the BBC’s response.

Croxall acknowledged the incident’s impact through social media. She thanked new followers while noting the experience had been “quite a ride.” The presenter also indicated she anticipated discussions with BBC management about the matter.

The BBC’s ruling on Martine Croxall underscores the delicate balance between editorial standards and human expression. As language continues to evolve, broadcasters face increasing challenges in maintaining perceived neutrality. This case demonstrates how even minor on-air moments can trigger significant public discourse about media impartiality.

Thought you’d like to know

What exactly did Martine Croxall say on air?

She changed scripted language from “pregnant people” to “women” while reporting on heatwave risks. This alteration was accompanied by a raised eyebrow that viewers found significant. The moment occurred during a live broadcast about vulnerable groups in extreme weather.

How many complaints did the BBC receive?

The BBC’s executive complaints unit received twenty formal complaints about the incident. All complaints were investigated and ultimately upheld by the corporation. The ruling found the presentation breached impartiality guidelines.

What was JK Rowling’s reaction?

The author publicly praised Croxall’s language substitution on social media. Rowling called the presenter “my new favourite BBC presenter” following the incident. This endorsement contributed to the segment’s viral spread across platforms.

Did the BBC acknowledge any script issues?

Yes, the corporation described the original scripting as “clumsy” in its ruling. The script had incorporated phrasing directly from a research press release. However, this acknowledgment didn’t change the impartiality violation finding.

What action did the BBC take internally?

Management held discussions with Croxall and the editorial team involved. These conversations reinforced the importance of maintaining impartiality standards. The talks emphasized avoiding any appearance of personal views on controversial topics.

Why is the term “pregnant people” used in media?

It’s increasingly used as inclusive language acknowledging trans men and non-binary individuals who can become pregnant. The terminology aims to recognize that not all pregnant individuals identify as women. This language evolution remains controversial in public discourse.

Trusted Sources

BBC Executive Complaints Unit
Reuters
The Guardian
Associated Press