View all newsletters
Sign up for our free email newsletters

Fighting for quality news media in the digital age.

Paxman apologises after swearing on Newsnight

By Press Gazette

BBC journalist Jeremy Paxman apologised last night after swearing during Newsnight.

The broadcaster read a direct quote from Andrew Rawnsley’s book on the inner workings of New Labour – The End of the Party – which said: “(Gordon) Brown went berserk with Bob Shrum. ‘How could you do this to me, Bob?’ Brown screamed at a shaking Shrum. ‘How could you fucking do this to me?'”

A few minutes later Paxman apologised to viewers for his use of the word.

He said: “Apparently I’m told by our editor I have to apologise for quoting what you said the Prime Minister said and using the f word there. So honour satisfied now.”

A BBC spokesman said: “During a post watershed interview with Andrew Rawnsley, Jeremy read a direct quote from his book which contained an expletive. He apologised immediately to anyone that may have found it offensive.”

Content from our partners
Free journalism awards for journalists under 30: Deadline today
MHP Group's 30 To Watch awards for young journalists open for entries
How PA Media is helping newspapers make the digital transition

Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog

Select and enter your email address Weekly insight into the big strategic issues affecting the future of the news industry. Essential reading for media leaders every Thursday. Your morning brew of news about the world of news from Press Gazette and elsewhere in the media. Sent at around 10am UK time. Our weekly does of strategic insight about the future of news media aimed at US readers. A fortnightly update from the front-line of news and advertising. Aimed at marketers and those involved in the advertising industry.
  • Business owner/co-owner
  • CEO
  • COO
  • CFO
  • CTO
  • Chairperson
  • Non-Exec Director
  • Other C-Suite
  • Managing Director
  • President/Partner
  • Senior Executive/SVP or Corporate VP or equivalent
  • Director or equivalent
  • Group or Senior Manager
  • Head of Department/Function
  • Manager
  • Non-manager
  • Retired
  • Other
Visit our privacy Policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications.
Thank you

Thanks for subscribing.

Websites in our network