BBC viewers have spotted David Dimbleby throwing ‘shade’ at Boris Johnson during the Remembrance Day parade coverage.
The veteran presenter, 84, was hosting the channel’s live coverage from Whitehall as the King led the commemorations at the Cenotaph for the first time.
As former prime ministers attended the service, David was heard name checking each former government leader, saying: “ John Major and Sir Tony Blair, Gordon Brown just behind, David Cameron on the left there.”
But when it came to mentioning Boris Johnson, he incorrectly called him ‘Brian Johnson’ instead.
Realising his mistake, David quickly told viewers: “Boris Johnson, I should have said.”
This prompted some social media users to speculate if David Dimbleby was in fact a secret rock fan – as Brian Johnson is the lead singer of rock band AC/DC.
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One viewer wrote: “During today’s poignant and stirring UK Remembrance Sunday event, a brief moment of levity – hearing former Prime Minster Boris Johnson being referred to as Britain Johnson (of @acdc). He may be on a Highway to Hell but he’s no rock star.” [sic]
Another said: “Wonderful Remembrance Day service by the BBC – although I’m wondering if Mr Dimbleby is a secret rock fan after referring to Boris Johnson as Brian Johnson.”
While other viewers seem to suggest the subtle faux pas may have been a dig.
“David Dimbleby only belatedly ‘corrected himself’, acknowledging that a former Prime Minister was in fact called, not Brian Johnson but Boris Johnson. Deliberate mistake?” one commented.
“Brian Johnson added so much more to the nation than ‘Boris’ ever did or will. Dimbleby knows what he’s doing,” said a second.
A third chimed in: “Just heard David Dimbleby refer to ex-PM ‘Brian Johnson’, subtle shade.”
“Such a sombre and sad ceremony this morning. Beautifully done. Then David Dimbleby saying ‘Brian Johnson’ made me laugh out loud to finish #OnPurpose,” a fourth added.
Other sharp-eared viewers claimed David made no mention of the most recent former prime minister Liz Truss, despite her being at the ceremony – but she was mentioned in the coverage, along with her brief stint in office.
One tweeted: “So David Dimbleby just announced Boris as Brian Johnson and missed out Liz Truss as he named the former Prime Ministers at the Remembrance Day Service. Priceless BBC!”
A second fan wrote: “I think Dimbleby has had a Buck’s Fizz or something this morning, lots of funny comments. First, referring to Prime Minister Brian Johnson (yes please), now a reference to the ‘Hitler has only got one ball’ lyric.”
“I think we should all call him Brian Johnson from now on too,” another added.
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