TalkSPORT Presenter Issues Apology After David Beckham Post Sparks Backlash
TalkSPORT presenter Shebahn Aherne has publicly apologised after facing significant criticism for a social media post about David Beckham, which emerged during the ongoing and highly publicised feud within the Beckham family.
Social Media Remark Draws Accusations of Objectification
The controversy began when Aherne recalled a past interview with the football icon on the social media platform X. She shared an anecdote about the time David Beckham placed his hand on her arm during an interview for TalkSPORT Drive.
"My own #Beckham story," she wrote. "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 intended as a light-hearted and humorous remark, the post did not land as planned. Several users on social media quickly criticised the presenter, accusing her of "objectifying" the former England captain and Real Madrid star.
Swift Apology Issued Following Online Criticism
In response to the mounting criticism, Shebahn Aherne issued a swift and public apology. She clarified that her initial post was meant in jest and expressed regret for any offence caused.
"Apologies for the offence caused with this," she stated. "It was a wee joke. Not here to offend anyone or objectify men. Deepest, sincerest apologies. X"
Backdrop of the Beckham Family Feud
This incident occurred against the backdrop of a very public family dispute involving David and Victoria Beckham and their eldest son, Brooklyn. The feud reached a new intensity earlier this week when Brooklyn Beckham posted a lengthy statement on Instagram.
In his post, he made serious allegations against his parents, accusing them of "endlessly trying" to sabotage his marriage to Nicola Peltz and prioritising public image above all else. Reports indicate that Brooklyn has been estranged from the family for some time, notably missing his father's 50th birthday celebration.
David Beckham's Indirect Response to Family Drama
While David Beckham has not directly addressed his son's specific accusations in public, he has spoken generally about parenting and social media in recent interviews. Speaking on CNBC's financial programme Squawk Box, the Inter Miami co-owner discussed the challenges of raising children in the digital age.
"I have always spoken about social media and the power of social media... for the good and for the bad," Beckham remarked. "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 emphasised a philosophy of allowing children to learn from their experiences, stating, "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."
The convergence of a major celebrity family feud and a media personality's misjudged attempt at humour has created a significant talking point, highlighting the intense scrutiny that surrounds public figures on social media platforms.
