Huge celebrity’s TV show AXED by BBC after crisis talks following scandal
THE BBC has pulled the plug on YouTube sensation KSI’s own entertainment show.
The influencer-turned-boxer had been in early talks for a big money turn on mainstream TV after years dominating online platforms.
However, the Corporation has done a U-turn after KSI used a racial slur in a YouTube video, which quickly received a fierce backlash from shocked fans.
An insider said: “The BBC has decided not to go forward with the programme after the controversy.
“It can’t be seen to endorse anything like that and bosses were as shocked and disappointed by the slur as everyone else.”
KSI, who remains the face of the BBC Sounds App, previously issued a heartfelt apology for the slur, saying: “I want to express my heartfelt regret for what I said and I want you to know that I am genuinely ashamed and deeply sorry for any pain or suffering I have caused.
“I realise that my words have consequences and as a public figure I have a responsibility to use my platform for good rather than perpetuating discrimination – and this week I have failed to do this.
“I will continue to educate myself on the rich history and culture of South Asia and the struggles faced by its people. I am committed to doing better, being a better ally and using my platform to uplift marginalised voices.”
We revealed last month how KSI’s TV project was hanging in the balance after his ill-judged comment.
Although KSI apologised and said he felt “genuinely ashamed” about saying the derogatory term for people of South Asian origin, it’s not the first time he’s found himself in hot water.
A TV insider said: “Part of the reason the BBC were interested in working with him is because he’s edgy and has the attention of a lot of young people.
“But that’s also why they’ve been rocked by what’s happened recently, because he might just be a bit too edgy.
“And with so many young eyes on him, they don’t want someone with potential to be a bad influence to be given a platform on the Beeb.
“Meetings are continuing and uncomfortable execs are considering whether he might have gone to far.”
KSI is a rapper, boxer and co-owner of Prime energy drinks from Watford, Herts.
He shot to fame through his YouTube group Sidemen and his videos have been viewed over ten billion times.
But they got into trouble when they staged a spoof of Channel 4 gameshow Countdown and used the letters to spell out the racist term.
Justifying it in the video he said: “I don’t mean this maliciously but the word is p***. I’m sorry, but we need points.” before the Sidemen fell about laughing.
It was slammed almost instantly on social media, with many people who had suffered abuse involving the term expressing their hurt and outrage.
Later KSI said: “I wanna apologise for saying a racial slur.
“There’s no excuse, no matter the circumstances, I shouldn’t have said it and I’m sorry.”
The BBC and a representative for KSI have been contacted for comment.