BBC/Composite: EastEnders Insider Share By Joel Harley Aug 11 2025 By Joel Harley Aug 11 2025 Jamie Borthwick returning to EastEnders three months after Strictly scandal The actor was suspended in June Jamie Borthwick Jay Brown Strictly Come Dancing Share By Joel Harley Aug 11 2025 By Joel Harley Aug 11 2025 EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick is reportedly set to return three months after the BBC suspended him for using an ableist slur on the set of Strictly. The broadcaster suspended the actor, who plays Jay Brown, in June. In response to the incident, which is believed to have occurred during filming in November, the BBC described his language as “entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect.” According to The Sun, Borthwick will return to the soap next month. Jamie Borthwick appeared on last year’s Strictly (Credit: BBC). Jamie Borthwick set to return to EastEnders as campaigners call for star to undergo ‘awareness training’ Speaking to the publication, Dr Shani Dhanda of the disability charity Scope said: “What shocked me most about this story is the character Jamie plays in the show often appears alongside another character called Janet who has Down syndrome. “His character was even her stepdad at one point. He didn’t say the word directly to a disabled person, but even still language is so important.” Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers The charity have called for Borthwick to undergo ‘awareness training’ before resuming work on the soap. Borthwick plays Jay Brown on the soap (Credit: BBC) Why did the BBC suspend Jamie Borthwick from EastEnders? Strictly scandal explained A clip obtained by The Sun on Sunday appeared to show Borthwick describe the people of Blackpool as ‘absolute m*****s.’ In his statement regarding the incident, the Jay Brown star said: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.” He continued: “It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely. Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did.” A spokesperson for the BBC also told the tabloid: “Whilst we do not comment on any individual matter, each case is always considered on its own facts. We are very clear on our expectations that inappropriate behaviour and language will not be tolerated.” Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns. Share Good to Know Share By Joel Harley Aug 11 2025 By Joel Harley Aug 11 2025
