Gary Lineker Makes First BBC Appearance Since Controversial Exit from Match of the Day
Gary Lineker was spotted on BBC cameras for the first time since his departure from "Match of the Day" in May. The 64-year-old former England striker stepped away from the iconic football highlights show amid controversy surrounding a social media post that featured a rat emoji, a symbol historically associated with antisemitic propaganda.
His appearance at Wimbledon today marks a significant return to BBC screens after ending a remarkable 26-year career with the broadcaster. Lineker’s exit from the network occurred a year earlier than anticipated, following the deletion of the contentious post. However, the fallout from the incident left his relationship with the BBC irreparably damaged.
At Wimbledon, Lineker was seen enjoying the festivities in the Royal Box alongside heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua on the fifth day of the Championships at the All England Club. The cameras captured the two sharing laughs and engaging in conversation as they took in the thrilling matches on Centre Court.
This surprise appearance comes at a time when the BBC is facing renewed scrutiny over its decision not to air a documentary about Gaza. The corporation had commissioned and funded "Gaza: Doctors Under Attack," yet opted against broadcasting it, citing concerns over impartiality, despite scheduling six potential air dates earlier this year. Channel 4 has since acquired the rights to the documentary, produced by Basement Films.
During a screening of the documentary on Thursday evening, Lineker expressed his deep disappointment with the BBC’s decision, becoming visibly emotional as he spoke. "It’s one of the most important films I’ve ever seen, certainly the most moving. I might need a minute here," he shared with the audience. "It needed to be seen. I think everyone would agree with that. The BBC should hold its head in shame."
Lineker’s comments reflect a notable shift from his previous defense of the BBC, as he lamented the organization’s decline over the past couple of years. "I’ve worked for the corporation for 30 years; to see the way it’s declined in the last year or two has been devastating," he remarked. "I’ve always defended it against claims of bias."
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