Good Morning Britain viewers have taken to social media to call for an investigation after ‘fat shaming’ comments made by presenter Adil Ray towards teenage darts player Luke Littler.
On Thursday’s episode of Good Morning Britain, Adil Ray raised eyebrows with his remarks about teen darts sensation Luke Littler. Concerned about the youngster’s health habits, he stated: “I have to say and this might not be very popular, I’m a little bit worried about Luke. He’s 17 and he’s turning into the look of a darts player.”
His co-host Sean Fletcher chuckled uncomfortably as Adil added, commenting on Luke’s pre-match routine: “He is though. If I were his mum and dad, I mean, he’s sort of – look at him. He’s admitted he has pizzas before a match and sits there playing computer games. I just think I’m a bit worried.”
Kate Garraway, also present on the show, questioned Adil’s stance given Luke’s achievements, leading him to continue: “I know but he’s going to get more successful and I just worry,” to which Kate asked if we was “fretting”.
As the conversation unfolded, Adil voiced his worry over Luke’s wellbeing, prompting a playful reply from Kate who suggested maybe delivering a carrot to the young player. Jokingly retorting, Adil offered: “Just before the final, I’ve brought a nice little salad for you from Pret.”
Seeing both sides, Kate explained how teenagers often prefer pizza, but added: “But I know what you mean, you’re concerned, I like that.”, reports the Express.
Lastly, Adil concluded with accolades for Luke’s dexterity: “He’s brilliant though, I absolutely love him, he’s great.”
Audiences were swift to vent their outrage on Twitter following Adil’s incendiary remarks. One irate viewer fumed, “Adil trying to fat shame Luke Littler is not the best thing this morning.”
The uproar intensified when another called for action, tweeting, “@gmb Really, Fat shaming live on morning TV @Ofcom should investigate this shocking behaviour.” Another chimed in, asserting, “Wow @adilray body-shaming like littler on live TV, call to @Ofcom needed @GMB He’s not even that overweight.”
The clamour for a response grew louder with a tweet urging action: “@GMB please ditch that Adil Ray! I hope he makes a public apology to Luke Littler after making derogatory comments about him.”
More criticism came with a condemnatory post: “your hosts fat shaming Luke Littler, a 17 year old boy is unacceptable and unnecessary. Clearly a bitter and unhappy new year for Adil and Kate.”
Last year, Luke became an overnight sensation after his incredible performance at the World Darts Championship, and has been impressing fans ever since.