Sky Sports faced backlash after censoring chants directed at Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace on New Year's Day. The crowd, described as well-lubricated, sang 'Keir Starmer's a wanker' as player Ryan Searle encouraged them, briefly joining in. The broadcaster muted the audio, sparking debate over free speech and political dissent.
The incident highlights Starmer's plummeting popularity, with approval ratings below 20% and a YouGov poll showing he is more disliked than Benjamin Netanyahu or Hamas. The chant has become ubiquitous at football grounds, nightclubs, and festivals, reflecting widespread public anger. Critics argue Starmer's technocratic style and lack of ideological clarity make him a target for amorphous rage from both right and left.
Jonathan Liew, writing in The Guardian, noted the irony that Starmer aimed to heal divisions but has instead become a unifying figure of contempt. The chant's dismissive tone—'wanker' rather than stronger expletives—implies cowardice and banality, contrasting with the roguishness attributed to Boris Johnson. Liew suggests Starmer's managerialism and reluctance to define a clear political mission have alienated voters across the spectrum.
