Sky News on-air f-bomb triggers quick desk reaction as Walliams segment unfolds

A Sky News presenter reacted in real time when a colleague swore on air during a Saturday breakfast segment. Arts and Entertainment Correspondent Katie Spencer muttered, 'oh f*** it, I'm going to start again' after stumbling over her words while reporting on claims about David Walliams. The moment was broadcast before the camera cut to the newsroom, where Kamali Melbourne and Anna Jones were presenting the program.

Melbourne's expression froze on screen as he addressed the viewers. 'Yeah, so, apologies if you heard any bad language there - we will check that out,' he said, then looked to Sky's sport presenter Jacquie Beltrao and quipped: 'But Jacquie's joined us - no bad language Jacs.' Beltrao replied: 'No bad language from me!'

The on-air slip occurred as the program discussed claims that David Walliams harassed and behaved inappropriately toward female staff. The Daily Mail, citing HarperCollins, reported yesterday that the publisher would no longer publish the comedian and children's author’s works following an internal investigation that began after accusations dating to 2023. Separately, the BBC said it has no plans for future projects with Walliams, dealing another blow to any prime-time comeback hopes. Walliams has denied the allegations and, according to associates, is currently on a break in the Maldives with his 12-year-old son, Alfred.

Viewers reacted to the clip on X, with posts noting the dangers of live television and some speculating the clip might have been pre-recorded. Others criticized the reporter for the slip, emphasizing that on-air swearing is a risk of live broadcasting.