Image: Maryam Moshiri, BBC presenter, flipping the bird live on air
In a moment that will undoubtedly be remembered in broadcasting history, BBC presenter Maryam Moshiri inadvertently became an internet sensation after accidentally raising her middle finger live on air while presenting the news. This seemingly uncharacteristic gesture turned Moshiri into an icon and that even the most polished professionals can have their off-color moments.
What Happened?
On December 7th, during the BBC News at noon, Moshiri was unknowingly caught on camera flipping the bird just as the program began. The brief but eye-catching incident quickly went viral, with the clip being shared and dissected across social media platforms. Initially, the reason behind the gesture remained a mystery, fueling speculation and adding to the virality of the moment.
The following day, Moshiri took to X to clear the air. Moshiri apologies for the incident and explaining that it was simply a playful moment gone wrong. She stated that she had been jokingly counting down the seconds with her fingers for the behind-the-scenes crew, and upon reaching one, had playfully flipped the bird without realizing the camera was live.
From Oops to Icon:
Despite the accidental nature of the gesture, the internet embraced Moshiri with open arms. The incident was widely hailed as “iconic,” with praise pouring in for her quick recovery and professionalism. Her ability to seamlessly transition from the playful gesture to delivering the news was particularly commended.
While the incident provided a lighthearted moment of amusement for many, it also sparked discussions about professionalism. Some viewers used the opportunity to call for a more relaxed and relatable presentation style. While others defended the importance of maintaining journalistic decorum.
There should be a bit of lightheartedness in the serious world of news.
