Broadcasting regulator Ofcom has revealed the 10 television programmes that have led to it receiving the largest number of complaints.
It marks the 500th edition of Ofcom’s Broadcast Bulletin - a fortnightly newletter about what complaints are being investigated that has out every second Monday since 2004.
Ofcom has a statutory duty to “represent the interests of citizens and consumers by promoting competition and protecting the public from harmful or offensive material” - and has wide-ranging powers to sanction broadcasters who fall foul of the code.
5. Love Island
On August 6, 2021, a total of 24,921 complaints were made when Faye Winter swore and screamed in partner Teddy Soares' face. Ofcom decided no rules has been broken. | ITV
6. Julia Hartley-Brewer on Talk TV
On January 3, 2024, Talk TV presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer prompted 17,351 complaints when interviewing Palestinian politician Dr Mustafa Barghouti. She accused him of interrupting her, saying: “Maybe you’re not used to women talking, I don’t know, but I’d like to finish the sentence.” At the end of the interview she then bristled: “Sorry to have been a woman speaking to you but there you are.” Ofcom didn't take action but issued “strong guidance” to the broadcaster that “potentially offensive comments” must be “justified and put into proper context”. | Getty Images
7. I’m a Celebrity, Get me out of Here!
In 2020 a campaign by animal charity the RSPCA led to 11,516 complaints about reality show 'I’m a Celebrity, Get me out of Here!', presented by telly duo Ant and Dec, due to the use of live creatures during the trials. Ofcom found that it "did not raise issues under our rules". | Getty Images
8. Dan Wootton Tonight
A total of 8,867 people complained about an episode of Dan Wootton Tonight, on GB News, on September 26, 2023, after guest Laurence Fox made sexist remarks about journalist Ava Evans. Ofcom found their rules on offence had been breached and both men's careers at the channel were finished. | Getty Images