GMB slapped with hundreds of Ofcom complaints after star accused of fat-shaming Luke Littler

Adil Ray, a presenter of Good Morning Britain (GMB), was criticized after his comments about Luke Littler, a 17-year-old darts champion, were viewed negatively. During a segment discussing Luke’s success, Ray expressed concern over his diet and appearance, suggesting he was “turning into the look of a darts player”. HIs remarks led to 311 complaints to the broadcasting regulator, Ofcom.

The coverage of Luke’s 5-2 defeat to Nathan Aspinall, which earned him a spot in the World Darts Championship semifinals, was broadcast on Thursday’s show in relation to the sports news. Adil then cautioned viewers that his statement “could not be very well received.”

He continued: “I’m a little bit worried about Littler. He’s 17 and he’s turning into the look of a darts player. Look at him! He admits to playing computer games while having pizzas before a game. I just think I’m a bit worried”.

Kate Garraway then said Adil need not be worried about Luke as he’s ‘ so successful. ‘ Doubling down, Adil replied: “He’s going to get more successful and he can keep on doing it… but I don’t want him to get too unhealthy”.

Kate suggested Adil take a carrot to Luke’s dressing room to “see how that goes down” to lighten the mood. Adil joked: “Just before the final. Here you go, I’ve got a salad for you from Pret”. While Kate and Adil giggled in the studio, viewers at home claimed to be ‘ disgusted ‘ by the exchange.

One fumed: “Adil Ray just casually fat shaming a 17-year-old kid on Good Morning Britain, should be ashamed”. Another chimed in: “GMB your hosts fat shaming Luke Littler, a 17-year-old boy, is unacceptable and unnecessary. Evidently, Adil and Kate’s new year will be bitter and unhappy.

A third called Adil’s comment hypocritical, writing: “I can’t believe the body shaming by Adil Ray on this morning’s GMB about Luke Littler. In the past, this program will have featured objectionable body shaming topics. Leave the young lad alone. Would he have addressed a woman in that way? I think an apology is in order”.

Another fan defended Adil, replying: “He wasn’t fat shame him but suggests a healthy option. In his position, Luke should and could serve as an example for others. Why should he play darts in a fast food restaurant with beer?

The incident has sparked discussions about appropriateness of personal remarks made on live television, particularly those made of young athletes. Viewers have urged more sensitivity and awareness about public figures’ media portrayals. After reaching the 2024 World Championship final at the age of 16, Lukas quickly rose to the position of being one of the biggest names in darts.

Last year’s final attracted a peak TV audience of 3.7 million viewers, where Luke Littler, known as “The Nuke”, earned £200, 000 for finishing second. In his first year as a professional, he raked in £1 million in prize money. Luke was the most popular name on Google in 2024, surpassing King Charles and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

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Source: Mirror