Strictly Come Dancing star Sarah Hadland has ignited a fierce debate over sexism in the media after making comments about Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye on ITV's This Morning. Appearing on the show on Tuesday, June 23, Hadland gushed over Okoye, whom she described as the "world's sexiest footballer," prompting accusations of double standards from viewers.
Comments on This Morning Spark Outrage
Hadland, known for her role on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, told hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard that Okoye might convince her to watch football. She joked: "I will be watching now I've seen the Nigerian goalkeeper. Have you seen him? Wow-ee, thank you very much! I wish he was [sat right here], he's absolutely gorgeous." Fellow guest Stephen Mangan attempted to interject, saying: "I would hate to objectify a man like that," but Hadland continued, adding: "So would I, but look at him. I don't care if he can do Shakespeare, he's looking lovely in a tight top, thank you."
Viewers Slam 'Rancid' Segment
The segment quickly drew criticism on social media, with one X user writing: "This underlines the double standards here. Switch it around and a man would be cancelled saying the same about a woman footballer! Unnecessary objectification of a male footballer at @ITV." Another called the segment "rancid," while a third echoed: "If a man did this there would be uproar. Double standards!!" A fourth user added: "If a woman does this it's a joke and a bit of harmless fun, if a man does this then he is sacked for being a perv."
Defenders Point to 'Harmless Fun'
However, some viewers defended Hadland, with one writing: "Is that all you've got to worry about?" Another agreed: "We're desperate to be offended at every turn now - drives me round the twist. Literally nothing to see here at all. It's called a slice of gentle morning humour." Ben Shephard had earlier asked if Okoye was "causing issues in relationships," to which Hadland replied: "Apparently relationships have broken up because of him. I mean, I can understand it, women are obsessed."
Broader Debate on Media Objectification
The incident has reignited discussions about gender double standards in the media, particularly regarding the objectification of male and female figures. Hadland's comments come amid ongoing scrutiny of how celebrities and public figures discuss athletes. The Nigerian goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, has gained significant attention for his looks, with Hadland's remarks adding to the discourse.
