Ant McPartlin faces backlash for sexist remarks towards female producers
- Ant McPartlin joked about the virginity status of female producers during an Instagram after-show.
- His remarks were criticized by women's campaigners and MP Rosie Duffield as sexist and inappropriate.
- Such comments reflect a wider issue of power dynamics and sexism in the entertainment industry.
In the UK, broadcaster Ant McPartlin sparked controversy with inappropriate remarks about female producers during an online after-show for 'I'm A Celebrity.' While hosting a segment on Jungle Club, he made several comments referencing the virginity status of two producers, ages 40 and 24, which were deemed sexist and degrading. These remarks included joking about 'virginity rings' and stating, 'Look at all those thumbs and thumb rings. They're all single and they're all virgins.' Women's rights advocates and MP Rosie Duffield criticized McPartlin for targeting women in a position of lesser power and failing to set a responsible example. Many believe that comments of this nature encompass a power dynamic that is damaging and indicative of a wider societal issue regarding sexism and inappropriate behavior in the entertainment industry. McPartlin's comments have been accused of crossing the line from what may have previously been seen as ‘banter’ to more serious harassment, highlighting a need for accountability from public figures in their discourse toward vulnerable individuals in professional settings.