Staff Reports
A recently surfaced behind-the-scenes video has provided insight into the amusing moment when BBC News anchor Maryam Moshiri unintentionally made a gesture that appeared to be flipping off viewers during a live broadcast. The 13-second clip, which gained attention on Friday, captures Moshiri playfully interacting with the studio crew just before the show commenced. In the video, she uses her fingers to count down to the start of the program, but the situation takes an unexpected turn when she extends her third finger, accompanied by a playful head tilt. The universally recognized rude gesture took viewers by surprise, quickly becoming viral and propelling Moshiri to internet fame.
Following the incident, Moshiri took to social media to apologize, asserting that it was a harmless joke. She clarified that she was mimicking a countdown with her fingers while the director was verbally counting down from 10 to 0. Moshiri emphasized her lack of awareness that the camera was rolling and expressed no intention to offend or upset anyone. Despite the hiccup, she swiftly regained composure and seamlessly transitioned into the news program.
New behind-the-scenes clip appears to confirm #BBC anchor’s story for showing middle finger on air. #theCivileyes pic.twitter.com/AQdZNwlZNa
— TheCivilEyes (@TheCivilEyes) December 16, 2023
Three days later, Moshiri returned to the airwaves, addressing the situation with grace and professionalism. She commenced her segment by reporting on the top story of the week—former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson apologizing for the country's challenges during the pandemic. Despite the viral incident, Moshiri continued to impress viewers with her composure and dedication to her role.
The release of the complete behind-the-scenes video amplified the online frenzy. Many viewers advocated for Moshiri to receive a raise, and others argued that the longer clip demonstrated her lack of malicious intent. Ultimately, the incident served as a reminder of the human side of news anchors, injecting a bit of humor into an occasionally serious industry.
