In an unexpected twist during a live broadcast, BBC News presenter Maryam Moshiri accidently became a meme when her attempt at a “private joke” went hilariously wrong.
The incident occurred as BBC News transitioned to the studio for the latest headlines. Viewers were briefly treated to an unexpected hand gesture before Moshiri, realizing her spontaneous slip, swiftly returned to a more conventional news anchor pose, offering a quick, “Live from London, this is BBC News.”
The gaffe, which was promptly clipped and shared on various Twitter accounts, quickly went viral on social media, prompting Moshiri to provide an explanation and extend an apology to viewers.
According to the presenter, the gesture was part of a “private joke” she was sharing with friends in the gallery, involving a countdown with her fingers that concluded with the unintended and potentially offensive middle finger display.
It was not my intention for this to happen, and I’m sorry if I offended or upset anyone. I wasn’t ‘flipping the bird’ at viewers or even a person really.
Despite the controversial nature of the act, netizens appeared to take the incident in good humor. One user even described it as “pretty cute” with nothing controversial about it, while others praised Moshiri’s authenticity and expressed hopes that she wouldn’t face repercussions.
“Lmfao she’s real asf for this. She better not lose her job. Better not hear one complaint,” read one comment.
“I think the BBC needs more people like her 😂😂,” another user chimed in.
Turning her into an internet meme, one user humorously wrote, “Me to my friend but then the teacher calls out my name.”
Moshiri, who was promoted to one of the chief presenters of the BBC News channel in February, has been with the British broadcaster for over two decades.
