Overview

• On June 22, Martine Croxall paused mid-broadcast to replace the autocue’s “pregnant people” with “women” during a report on heat-related deaths.
• The clip went viral online and drew praise from JK Rowling, who called Croxall her “new favourite BBC presenter.”
• BBC insiders say the phrase was quoted from external research and that Croxall is unlikely to face disciplinary action under the existing style guide.
• The broadcaster’s shift on gender language follows an April Supreme Court verdict that defined “woman” by biological sex under the Equality Act.
• The episode has reignited debate over gender-neutral phrasing in journalism and healthcare, as advocates weigh inclusivity against biological accuracy.