FIFA World Cup viewers have expressed fury over ITV's decision to feature actor Brian Cox during live coverage of the semi-final between France and Spain on July 14, 2026. The 80-year-old Succession star appeared in the Brooklyn studio alongside host Mark Pougatch and pundits Ian Wright, Gary Neville, Roy Keane, and Patrick Vieira.
Viewer Backlash on Social Media
Many fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to question why an actor was included in the build-up to such a high-stakes match. One viewer wrote: "ITV attitude to football really sucks. It's World Cup semi final time! So let's bring a random actor on the panel." Another said: "Brian Cox doing pre-game punditry for a World Cup semi final? Absolutely not." A third added: "Brian Cox really? A World Cup semi final and we've got some actor on?" Some viewers threatened to switch channels during the interview, with one branding the segment "utterly pointless."
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Despite the criticism, other viewers were delighted by Cox's appearance. One fan wrote: "Brian Cox on the panel, how fun and random." Another said: "Brian Cox punditry is something I didn't know I needed." A third declared: "Brian Cox the legend on ITV for the France vs Spain SEMI FINAL. Respect." During the segment, Cox discussed his love of football, praised Scotland's fans, and commented on Cape Verde's tournament performance. He said: "The Scots are very lucky in our fans, they're just phenomenal, they're great people. I wish the team could live up to it."
Coverage Details
The FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage is airing on both BBC and ITV. Cox's appearance came just 20 minutes into the live broadcast, sparking debate over the appropriateness of celebrity pundits in serious football coverage.
