Patrick Kielty, the estranged husband of TV presenter Cat Deeley, has faced a backlash after remarks on his BBC talk show were branded 'anti-English' by viewers. During the episode, Kielty and his guests discussed the success of Irish actors in Hollywood, with some viewers interpreting the conversation as dismissive of English talent.
The controversy arose when guest Charlene McKenna commented on Irish actors Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal playing 'quintessentially famous English people', adding an awkward 'Oops'. Kielty encouraged her, saying 'Get it off your chest. Go on. We all know what you're saying,' while staring directly into the camera.
Viewers took to social media to criticise the segment. One wrote: 'The anglophobia on display here is rather childish and pathetic.' Another said: 'Strange that they're so pleased about a display of anti-English prejudice implicitly understood by the presenter and the audience.' A third added: 'It's so frustrating what Paddy comes out with, all the anti Brit stuff.'
The Express has approached Kielty's representative for comment. The episode aired shortly after Jessie Buckley won a Golden Globe for her role in 'Hamnet', alongside fellow Irish star Paul Mescal.
