Overview

• At the Elstree Studios press launch, Skinner grabbed a journalist’s phone during a roundtable and left the room, cutting short the interviews.
• The BBC said any behaviour falling below its expected standards will not be tolerated on its programmes.
• In a social media statement, Skinner apologized and said he picked up the device after glimpsing messages about a personal past issue, adding he stepped away to compose himself.
• Reports said executives held talks about his status, but subsequent coverage indicates he will continue on the show for now with no formal removal announced.
• His casting had already drawn criticism over past social posts and a publicized meeting with US Vice-President J.D. Vance, as director-general Tim Davie told MPs the production team makes casting decisions and the BBC would not accept racist or completely unacceptable views.