Did Jeremy Paxman bully University Challenge contestant? Tom Tyszczuk Smith’s mummy defends her ‘shy’ boy
DID Jeremy Paxman bully University Challenge contestant Tom Tyszczuk Smith? No. The action went like this:
Paxman: “The liberties of England and the Protestant religion I will maintain’. Which royal figure made that claim when he landed in Brixham, Devon in 1688?”
Tyszczuk Smith: “William I.”
Paxman: “No, William I? No I’m sorry, that’s the wrong answer and you know it’s very wrong…It’s only out by about 600 years or so. Anyway no, it’s William of Orange of course, William III.”
Tyszczuk Smith: “Sorry, no I’m sorry.”
The BBC received 44 complaints. On Twitter @scott_ruminates tweeted:
“Why not just spit in his face, Paxman – really show your disgust?”
Was the lad upset? Well, he wasn’t. But thanks to his mummy, he might now be. Dr Renata Tyszczuk, for it is she, noted:
I think Paxman is always a little tough with the contestants. But I think it is all in good spirit. I don’t think he’s a bully. Tom’s very clever and we are very proud. He is a shy boy so I think at times he was a little uncomfortable, but that is just his way.”
Shoot me now, mother. Shoot me now…
Posted: 13th, February 2013 | In: TV & Radio Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
