Boulton's Controversial Comments and Apology
Former Sky presenter Adam Boulton has issued an apology for describing the late Ann Widdecombe as a 'spinster' and 'old maid' during live television coverage following the discovery of her body. The comments, made amid a murder probe into her death, drew widespread criticism, prompting Boulton to initially defend his remarks before reversing his stance.
On Saturday, Boulton stated: '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.' He added that he knew many people loved her for her subsequent showbiz stardom.
Details of the Incident
Speaking on Sky News after news of the murder investigation broke, 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 remarks sparked fury, with former Tory chancellor and Reform UK member Nadhim Zahawi calling them 'vile' and demanding an apology.
Boulton initially refused, responding on X: 'No thanks. I stick to the facts. You and your ilk should stop trying to exploit the horrific death of a national personality.' However, within 24 hours he changed his position, issuing a full apology.
Political and Public Backlash
Former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies also criticised the comments, writing: 'These men are truly vile… (don't like women with views).' She noted that while she disagreed with Widdecombe on many issues, the remarks were 'very unpleasant & unnecessary.'
In his apology on X, Boulton explained: '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.' He described his choice of words as 'clumsy' and said he did not intend to offend.
Widdecombe's Background and Murder Investigation
Ann Widdecombe, a former Tory minister and later a star on shows like Strictly Come Dancing, was found dead at her home in Dartmoor. She had previously described herself as 'toothy, dumpy, and a spinster.' A manhunt is underway for her killer after a 26-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder was released and is 'no longer part of the investigation.'
Widdecombe had reportedly failed to show up for a planned video interview with Channel 5 on Wednesday afternoon, prompting concern. The murder investigation continues.
