BBC presenter Clive Myrie found himself embroiled in a heated exchange at the University of the Arts London (UAL) last month, it has emerged.
The veteran journalist, known for his work on BBC News and Mastermind, was caught on camera calling a pro-Palestinian protester a “f***ing idiot” after being heckled.
Despite the outburst, Myrie spent much of the event discussing the importance of free speech with students.
He criticised the protester for leaving without hearing his response, stating, “He’s not stayed to listen to my argument, notice. Stands up, shouts, you (the audience) applaud. But he doesn’t stay to hear what I’ve got to say. That’s pathetic.”
Myrie further elaborated on his stance regarding student engagement, emphasising his willingness to listen to concerns in his new role.
However, he drew a firm line, stating: “I’m not having anyone walk out on me. I’m not having it.
The BBC’s Clive Myrie took aim at a Palestine protester who interrupted his event at University of the Arts LondonThe BBC’s Clive Myrie took aim at a Palestine protester who interrupted his event at University of the Arts London
“I am not going to be abused by students.”
The presenter expressed openness to discussing his journalism concerning the Hamas-Israel conflict but made it clear he would not tolerate being “slagged off”.
A UAL spokesman issued a statement on the outburst, stating: “On Wednesday 25 Sept, Clive Myrie held a Q&A session with students to mark the start of the term.
“During the event, some students expressed their views on the ongoing war in Israel-Palestine.
The event took place in September at University of the Arts London
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“At the start of the session, Clive used language he regrets.
“His apology was sent to attendees shortly after the event ended.
“Clive stands by his sentiment that dialogue should be rooted in mutual respect.
“At UAL, we will continue to uphold freedom of expression and encourage constructive conversations about all topics in our community.”
The controversy comes on the heels of another recent issue for Myrie.
The presenter had to apologise for failing to declare at least £65,000 of earnings from corporate events over the past 12 months.
These included speeches at functions hosted by Dutch bank ING and the Royal College of Surgeons.
Myrie, who earns £310,000 annually for his BBC News presenting duties, received income from eleven events, with nine paying between £5,000 and £10,000, and two paying over £10,000.
Since 2021, BBC TV stars have been required to declare earnings from outside sources, making this oversight particularly noteworthy.
