BBC News anchor praised by JK Rowling for rejecting what was on teleprompter while on-air
ArchiveFirst published June 23, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
BBC News anchor Martine Croxall is being applauded after correcting her teleprompter during a live broadcast. While reporting on heat-related deaths in Britain, Croxall replaced the term “pregnant people” with “women,” saying, “The aged, pregnant people—women—and those with pre-existing conditions need to take precautions.”
A clip of the moment quickly went viral, catching the attention of Harry Potter author JK Rowling. On X, Rowling wrote, “I have a new favourite BBC presenter,” clearly supporting Croxall’s choice to reject gender-neutral wording.
I have a new favourite BBC presenter. https://t.co/l2gkThccty
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) June 22, 2025
The BBC clarified that the term came from the study itself, not their editorial staff. While their style guide supports using appropriate gender language, it doesn’t enforce specific terms unless needed for clarity.
Croxall thanked new followers online, calling the experience “quite a ride.” Her edit has sparked debate about gendered language and comes as Rowling continues to challenge transgender rights publicly. Despite backlash, Rowling insists that “nobody sane believes humans can change sex.”
