Scottish talkSPORT presenter Shebahn Aherne has issued a public apology after facing criticism for making what some social media users described as an 'objectifying' joke about football legend David Beckham. The incident occurred during a week when the Beckham family has been embroiled in a very public and bitter feud.
The Controversial Social Media Post
The 34-year-old broadcaster shared a personal anecdote about interviewing David Beckham several years ago on the talkSPORT drive show. In her post, Aherne wrote: 'My own #Beckham story. I interviewed him a couple of years ago for @talkSPORT drive... he put his hand on my arm and asked me to repeat a question. I sniffed that bit of arm several times on the train home. #brooklynbeckham.'
While Aherne likely intended the comment as light-hearted humour, the timing proved particularly sensitive given the ongoing family drama. The post quickly drew criticism from some X users who accused the presenter of objectifying the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star.
Swift Apology Issued
Responding to the backlash, Aherne promptly issued a public apology on the social media platform. She wrote: 'Apologies for the offence caused with this. It was a wee joke. Not here to offend anyone or objectify men. Deepest, sincerest apologies. X'
The incident highlights the delicate nature of public commentary during sensitive family matters, particularly when involving high-profile individuals like the Beckhams.
Background: The Beckham Family Feud
The controversy comes amid a dramatic public falling out between David and Victoria Beckham and their eldest son, 26-year-old Brooklyn Beckham. On Monday, Brooklyn released an explosive statement on Instagram that sent shockwaves through celebrity circles.
Brooklyn's Explosive Allegations
In his lengthy social media post, Brooklyn made several serious allegations against his parents. He accused them of 'endlessly trying' to ruin his marriage to actress Nicola Peltz, 31, and claimed they value 'public promotion above all else'. The photographer further alleged his parents have been placing 'countless lies in the media' about him and his wife.
Brooklyn revealed he has no intention of reconciling with his family, stating: 'I do not want to reconcile with my family. I'm not being controlled, I'm standing up for myself for the first time in my life.'
Specific Wedding-Related Claims
The statement contained detailed allegations about events surrounding Brooklyn's wedding to Nicola Peltz. He claimed Victoria Beckham cancelled making Nicola's wedding dress at the last minute, despite her excitement about wearing the design. Brooklyn also alleged his parents pressured him to sign away rights to his name weeks before the wedding, with the holdout affecting what he described as their 'payday'.
Further wedding-related claims included allegations that family members told him Nicola was 'not blood' and 'not family' the night before the ceremony, and that his mother called him 'evil' for seating arrangements that included both grandmothers at their table.
Recent Family Tensions
Brooklyn addressed his conspicuous absence from David's 50th birthday celebrations last May, revealing that despite travelling to London for the occasion, he and Nicola were 'rejected for a week' as they waited in their hotel room. He claimed his father refused all attempts to see him unless it was at the large birthday party with cameras present, and only agreed to meet under the condition that Nicola wasn't invited.
The family rift appears to have deepened significantly, with The Daily Mail reporting that relations broke down so completely last summer that Brooklyn asked his parents to communicate with him only through their respective lawyers. However, it's understood there was no legal action between them, and Brooklyn reportedly remains in regular contact with both sets of grandparents.
David Beckham's Response
David Beckham broke his silence about the family situation in an interview on CNBC's financial program Squawk Box less than 24 hours after Brooklyn's post went public. While not directly addressing the specific allegations, the Inter Miami owner spoke generally about social media and parenting.
'I have always spoken about social media and the power of social media... For the good and for the bad,' Beckham said. 'What kids can access these days, it can be dangerous. But what I have found personally, especially with my kids as well, use it for the right reasons.'
He continued with what many interpreted as a veiled reference to the situation: 'They make mistakes, but children are allowed to make mistakes. That is how they learn. That is what I try to teach my kids, you sometimes have to let them make those mistakes as well.'
Ongoing Media Attention
The Beckham family drama has captured significant public interest, dominating social media discussions and celebrity news coverage. The situation represents a dramatic departure from the carefully curated public image the family has maintained for decades, raising questions about the pressures of living in the public eye and managing family relationships amid intense media scrutiny.
As the story continues to develop, all eyes remain on whether there will be any reconciliation between Brooklyn and his parents, or if the family rift will continue to play out in public view.
