The BBC has stated that it is taking allegations against presenter Ashley Cain regarding his use of explicit sexual and misogynistic language in historical social media posts "very seriously."
Background of the Allegations
The Press Association understands that the broadcaster was unaware of the remarks prior to an investigation by The Guardian. The investigation claimed that Cain, 35, frequently referred to women on X (formerly Twitter) using abusive terms and sexualized language, including "slags," "sluts," and "psychos."
BBC's Response
A BBC spokesperson commented: "We are very clear we expect the highest standards of behaviour from everyone who works with or for the BBC. When allegations are brought to our attention we take them seriously. We will consider this information carefully and do not intend to comment further at this stage."
Who is Ashley Cain?
The former Coventry City football player is best known for fronting the BBC Three documentary series Ashley Cain: Into The Danger Zone, where he explores issues affecting young men born into a life of criminality. He also appeared last year on the BBC's spin-off cooking programme, Celebrity MasterChef.
Details of the Posts
The Guardian reported on Wednesday that before working for the BBC, Cain was a prolific user of the social media platform and would make jokes about hitting women. In 2014, in response to a since-deleted tweet he perceived to be homophobic, Cain reportedly told a woman online that she should "go and choke on a cock you slut."
Cain's X account appears to have been removed from the platform.
Investigation and Next Steps
PA understands that the broadcaster was not aware of the social media posts, which the BBC sees as "deplorable." The broadcaster is understood to have asked the independent production companies that hired Cain to review the social media checks conducted at the time. Transmission details of Into The Danger Zone series two are yet to be announced.
