The BBC is facing significant public criticism following an episode of its flagship panel show, Have I Got News For You, which aired on Friday evening. The controversy stems from host Katherine Ryan's use of a highly offensive term while making a joke about Victoria Beckham.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
During the broadcast on Friday, 7th November 2025, the discussion turned to Sir David Beckham's recent knighthood investiture by King Charles. Comedian and panellist Maisie Adam, 31, made a quip referencing an old email where David Beckham had allegedly vented his frustration about not initially receiving a knighthood, calling the honours committee a "bunch of c****".
Building on this, host Katherine Ryan, 42, then delivered the line that prompted a flood of complaints. She stated, "I don't know if we are allowed to broadcast the 'C-word', but you did reference Victoria Beckham earlier... and we'll allow that." The remark, which directly linked the expletive to the former Spice Girl, was met with audible surprise from the studio audience.
Viewer Backlash and Social Media Reaction
After the show's official account posted a clip of the segment on X (formerly Twitter), viewers were quick to express their displeasure. Many accused the programme and the BBC of crossing a line by allowing such language to be broadcast, especially in a pre-recorded format where it could have been edited out.
One viewer commented on the platform, calling it "Unacceptable broadcasting of the 'C' word." They questioned the editorial decision, asking, "This is a recorded programme, so who at the @BBC felt it was ok not to cut or bleep it out?"
Another person tweeted, "I couldn't believe my ears last night, definitely crossed a boundary there," while a separate comment demanded that "Katherine Ryan should be suspended." The general sentiment online was that the joke was weak and that the use of such strong language was unnecessary and disappointing for a BBC programme.
Context: Beckham's Proud Achievement
The controversial segment was in stark contrast to the tone of the actual event it was discussing. David Beckham, 50, received his knighthood, becoming a Knight Bachelor at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. The football legend described it as the "proudest moment" of his career.
Associates of Beckham revealed that he intends to use the honour proactively. A friend shared that Beckham plans to intensify his charitable work, stating, "David wants to use this incredible honour to champion the causes he believes in, and raise their profile. He is determined to give back to the UK." Beckham has a long history of philanthropy, including his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005.
The BBC and Katherine Ryan's representative have been contacted for comment by news outlets.
