BBC's Tony Blackburn 'very sad he can no longer express views’ after I’m A Celeb backlash
Tony Blackburn received a mixed reaction from fans when he shared his views on the latest series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! following the ITV show's debut last night.
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BBC Radio 2 presenter Tony Blackburn has admitted he feels “very sad” he cannot “express his views” without fearing backlash following his comments about the latest episode of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!.
Tony, who was the first star to ever win I’m A Celeb on ITV, was met with a mixed reaction when he gave his verdict on the first episode of the 2023 series.
Taking to Twitter earlier today, the broadcaster told his 116,200 followers: “I really enjoyed the first night of @imacelebrity last night @antanddec on form as always.
“I loved Nick Pickard and Sam Thompson, Nigel Farage came over very well,” he continued.
“I found Nella Rose rather loud and over the top but hopefully after this evening trial she will calm down. It’s going to be a good three weeks.” (sic)
While some people agreed with Tony in the comments, others were not impressed with his verdict - especially when it came to former UKIP leader and GB News presenter Nigel.
“Sorry I am boycotting this years I’m a celebrity. No wish to hear another word Nigel Farage has to say,” wrote one user, while another penned: “Don’t let Farage fool you Tony. Unless you are on the Dark side?” (sic)
“I think you are on the wrong side of this one Tony,” Carl agreed, while David added: “Not watching it because of Farage in it. He should not be in it.” (sic)
However, other fans backed Tony, with Johnny writing: “Tony you said absolutely nothing wrong. Sadly social media brings out these cult like characters.” (sic)
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“Going to watch on catch up but love your review already Tony,” Neil added. (sic)
Helen told Tony: “Your opinion Tony is as valid as anyone elses. It’s got to the point where we will soon be terrified to express ANY opinion in case just ONE person disagrees with us.” (sic)
In a now-deleted post, the celeb wrote back: “I agree Helen, it very sad not to be able to express your views about something.
“I remember once on the radio saying that the weather was nice and someone called to complain I’d said how nice it was because it was raining where they were.”
“She said last night I knew I’d be picked because I’m loud, I’m entertaining, eh no love your just loud,” Audrey wrote back, as the presenter replied: “Yes I agree, very loud.” (sic)
“I think it could be quite a corker!” penned Suzzane, as Tony concurred: “You’re right.”
“Stick with your opinion Tony,” Karen tweeted. Tony responded in another now-deleted tweet: “Thanks very much, we are all entitled to comment on something without being told not to.
“There are a lot of people I don’t particularly like on TV or films, but when they do something good then I will say it even if I don’t particularly like them.” (sic)
