BBC News: David Walliams Sparks Outrage with Nazi Salutes
The BBC has apologized for the offense caused and confirmed that the segment will not be broadcast, while Walliams' representatives have been asked for comment. The incident has sparked a heated debate about the use of sensitive gestures and the responsibility of public figures to be mindful of their actions.
Comedian David Walliams has sparked outrage after allegedly making two Nazi salutes during a recording of BBC's "Would I Lie To You?" Christmas special, prompting a fellow panellist to describe the gestures as "completely unacceptable".
The incident occurred when Walliams joined in with increasingly vigorous waves, culminating in a Nazi salute, during a segment where a fellow panellist discussed injuring their wrist while waving. The show's production company and the BBC have described the gestures as "completely unacceptable" and said the segment will not be broadcast.
The audience and fellow panellists were left uncomfortable, with some gasping in shock, after Walliams allegedly repeated the gesture later in the round. Host Rob Brydon immediately reprimanded him, but the damage had already been done. A BBC spokesperson apologized for the offense caused, while Banijay UK, the production company, also condemned the gesture.
This is not the first time Walliams has been involved in controversy, as he previously quit Britain's Got Talent in 2022 after making private comments about contestants that were leaked. Walliams' representatives have been asked for comment, but so far, none has been made.
The incident has sparked a heated debate about the use of sensitive gestures and the responsibility of public figures to be mindful of their actions. The BBC and the production company have taken a strong stance against the gesture, and it remains to be seen how Walliams will respond to the backlash.