Former Sky News presenter Adam Boulton has apologised after facing backlash for labelling the late Ann Widdecombe a “spinster” and an “old maid” amid a murder investigation into her death. The political commentator made the remarks during a live television appearance on his former channel, where he also discussed whether the 78-year-old former MP and politician was a virgin.
Boulton's Apology and Explanation
In a statement, Boulton said: “I was seriously wrong and insensitive in one of the several media appearances I made yesterday in reaction to the death of Ann Widdecombe. I got the timing and tone of my initial word portrait of her wrong. Of course I shared, and share, the horror at her murder and the respect for her remarkable and feisty political career. I also know that many people loved her for her subsequent showbiz stardom. Her untimely death is a horrible thing.”
He added: “My mistaken view was that in the context of rolling news coverage, I was being asked to contribute as an obituarist who has known her and interacted with her since the 1980s. This approach was premature. At no point was I expressing my personal feelings about her, that's not what I do. I was discussing her life in the round, based on the record of known facts and what she has said about herself, along with some recollections of our personal interactions. My choice of words on the spur of the moment was clumsy. I did not intend to offend though obviously I did.”
Original Remarks and Backlash
During the broadcast, Boulton said of Widdecombe: “She was very much a spinster, by the end I think you’d probably describe her as an old maid. Reportedly, she claimed that she was a virgin.” The comments drew immediate criticism, including from former Tory chancellor Nadhim Zahawi, who posted on X: “I hope Adam apologises and retracts these vile remarks immediately. Awful, twisted and utterly without decency.”
Initially, Boulton refused to apologise, responding: “No thanks. I stick to the facts. You and your ilk should stop trying to exploit the horrific death of a national personality. Police say no evidence of political or terror motive.” He added: “Widders herself never gilded the lily and would expect nothing less.” However, as criticism mounted from figures including Reform MP Robert Jenrick and former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, Boulton later issued an apology.
Political and Public Reactions
Robert Jenrick said Boulton had shown “his true colours”, while Sharron Davies wrote: “These men are truly vile... (don't like women with views). Lots of things I disagreed with Ann Widdecombe on, but these are very unpleasant and unnecessary comments.”
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Devon on Thursday morning. She was reportedly discovered by a carer, covered in blood after sustaining at least one serious head injury. Devon and Cornwall Police's Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman told a press conference that there was “no information that this is a politically-motivated crime” and confirmed the incident was not being treated as terror-related.
