Longtime Cast Member at the Center of Controversy

Jamie Borthwick, best known for his role as Jay Brown on EastEnders, has been suspended and subsequently axed from the BBC soap after a controversial video surfaced in June 2025. Borthwick, who joined the show in 2006 at just 12 years old, became one of Albert Square’s most recognizable faces, appearing in major storylines over nearly two decades.

He gained further public attention through Strictly Come Dancing, winning the 2023 Christmas Special with Nancy Xu and finishing seventh in the 2024 main series alongside Michelle Tsiakkas.

The Incident: What Was Said?

The controversy began when a behind-the-scenes video from Strictly Come Dancing in Blackpool was leaked. In the clip, Borthwick was heard using an ableist slur to describe the people of Blackpool, saying:
“Blackpool by the way. Absolute m********s”

The term he used is historically directed at people with Down’s syndrome and is widely regarded as offensive. The clip circulated rapidly on social media, prompting widespread criticism from viewers, local officials, and disability advocates.

The BBC released a statement condemning the language as “entirely unacceptable” and emphasizing that it “in no way reflects the values or standards” they uphold. Disability charity Scope also criticized the remark, noting that such terms reinforce harmful stereotypes and negatively impact disabled people.

Borthwick’s Response and Apology

Following the backlash, Jamie Borthwick issued a public apology, admitting he did not fully understand the derogatory nature of the word at the time. He expressed deep regret, stating:
“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused.”

Scope acknowledged the apology but emphasized that further reflection and education were necessary. Warren Kirwan, Scope’s media manager, urged Borthwick to “reflect on what he said, educate himself and do better,” adding, “We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people’s lives.”

Suspension and Speculation

After the video went public, the BBC immediately suspended Borthwick from EastEnders, fueling speculation about whether he would return. In August 2025, discussions about a potential comeback emerged, but public debate continued. Blackpool council officials requested a direct apology from Borthwick, and disability campaigners pressed for awareness training to address the incident responsibly.

The BBC faced mounting pressure to maintain consistency in responding to offensive behaviour among its stars, and Borthwick’s case was closely scrutinized in the media.

Axed from EastEnders

In September 2025, the BBC confirmed that Jamie Borthwick would not be returning to EastEnders. BBC Studios declined to comment on the reasons for his exit, citing policy against discussing individual cast decisions.

Borthwick’s final episode aired on 19 August 2025. His departure came without a formal storyline, leaving fans surprised and disappointed. After nearly 20 years on the show, his exit marked the end of a significant chapter for the series and for one of its longest-serving younger actors.

While viewers expressed regret at the abrupt departure of Jay Brown, many acknowledged the seriousness of the controversy and the importance of holding public figures accountable for offensive remarks.