By Lucy Caulkett-
The British news channel that positioned itself as “the home of free speech,” has severed ties with Laurence Fox and Calvin Robinson following a scandal involving derogatory remarks made about a female journalist.
The decision to part ways with the two prominent figures comes in the wake of public outrage and complaints filed with media regulator Ofcom.
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Laurence Fox, a former actor and political activist who hosted a weekly show on GB News, triggered the controversy when he questioned what “self-respecting man” would engage with Ava Evans, a political correspondent for PoliticsJoe.
The comments were made during Fox’s appearance as a contributor on Dan Wootton’s show. Fellow host Calvin Robinson, who initially voiced support for Fox and Wootton and was subsequently suspended, has also been dismissed.
Over 8,800 complaints were submitted to Ofcom in response to Fox’s derogatory remarks. The regulator has initiated an investigation into the incident.
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Last Thursday, Fox issued a video apology for his offensive language and anticipated his removal from GB News, claiming it would signify the channel’s transformation into a platform for “cancel culture.”
Fox expressed disappointment that GB News, which had touted itself as a defender of free speech, failed to stand by its principles. He criticized the channel’s rebranding as the “home of free speech,” asserting that it had become synonymous with “cancel culture.”
On the same day that his termination was announced, Fox was arrested on suspicion of conspiring to commit criminal damage to Ulez traffic cameras. The incident has added another layer of complexity to his already tumultuous week.
Dan Wootton, who faced suspension for his reaction to Fox’s comments during the initial exchange, issued an “unreserved” apology for his behavior. GB News stated that its internal investigation into Wootton’s conduct is ongoing.
The contentious episode unfolded when Wootton asked Fox for his opinion on Ava Evans’ appearance on BBC’s Politics Live. Evans had been discussing men’s mental health and suicide, advocating for the creation of a dedicated minister for men to address these issues. Fox’s response was met with shock and criticism, as he made derogatory remarks about Evans, insinuating that no “self-respecting man” would want to associate with her.
GB News, which prided itself on promoting free speech, now faces scrutiny over its handling of the incident, with critics questioning its commitment to its proclaimed values. The channel’s decision to part ways with Fox and Robinson has raised concerns about the boundaries of free speech in media and the role of cancel culture in shaping public discourse.
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