Jack Whitehall performed a characteristically risque routine while hosting Saturday’s Brit Awards, but ITV viewers felt that one joke, in particular, went too far.
The comedian took jabs at Stormzy, Simon Cowell, Coldplay and KSI while presenting live from the O2 Arena — but a dig aimed at Diddy sparked outrage across the internet.
"ITV had so many of its presenters cancelled this year, they had to come crawling back to an ex,” Whitehall joked to kick things off, referencing Phillip Schofield and Gino D’Acampo being taken off air.
Whitehall has now hosted the Brit Awards five times, matching James Corden's record. However, it remains to be seen if ITV will extend another invitation.
What was Jack Whitehall’s P Diddy joke?
Whitehall saved his most offensive joke for JADE after she performed Angel of my Dreams while wearing an all-white outfit.
“I love that she went for that aesthetic,” he said. “I really thought Diddy might have done it for the white party theme. Jade has brought it back."
Rapper Diddy is under investigation, having been charged last year with racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Diddy, also known as P Diddy, Sean Combs, Sean John, Love and Puff Daddy, denies the offences.
His alleged victims have described meeting him at his annual parties, where guests dressed in white — a tradition that began in 1998.
JADE (Jade Thirlwall) won the Brit Award for Best Pop Act.
Whitehall also mentioned her solo career after leaving Little Mix, the band formed following her time on The X Factor 2011.
He said: "She’s ditched the surname, her bandmates and her old record label, in doing so wiping the smile off Simon Cowell’s latest face. Jade will be here."
What has the reaction been on social media?
Overwhelmingly negative.
Whitehall has faced criticism for making a joke about the alleged sex offender, with many claiming it distracted from JADE’s performance.
One user said on X (formerly Twitter): “Diddy joke? Stop booking Jack Whitehall for things PLEASE it’s not 2013 anymore.”
Another added: “Jack Whitehall making a Diddy joke was so tasteless and tone-deaf.”
A third said: “Mentioning Diddy after the whole, very blatant, message of JADE's performance??? Get this man off my screen.”
Neither Whitehall nor JADE have commented on the backlash.
In the lead-up to the show, Whitehall explained: “For the dress rehearsals, I do a dummy script so no one can complain about what I'm saying about their acts. Then, on the night, I make sure there are a few surprises for the acts, the record labels, and ITV.
“I like to keep everyone on their toes.”
