The atmosphere on BBC’s “The One Show” shifted unexpectedly when comedian Harry Enfield steered a seemingly harmless conversation into potentially treacherous territory. He was there to discuss his upcoming tour, a jovial appearance alongside culinary personalities, but a simple question about his favorite character ignited a brief, awkward moment.
Enfield initially referenced his iconic “Smashie and Nicey” sketch, a nostalgic nod to old-school DJs. But then came the unexpected addition: a comparison to Peter Mandelson, delivered with a pointed remark about resilience and a knack for reappearance. It was a fleeting comment, yet it landed with a noticeable thud.
Host Alex Jones immediately attempted to steer the conversation back on course, a subtle “oh gosh, we’ll leave that there” signaling a desire to quickly move past the remark. The studio audience offered a scattering of nervous laughter, while the other guests seemed momentarily stunned.
The moment quickly spread online, sparking a flurry of reactions. Some viewers found the joke genuinely funny, praising Enfield for a daring quip. Others speculated that the comedian was deliberately pushing boundaries, noting his knowing glance at the camera as Jones attempted damage control.
The incident occurred against a backdrop of recent scrutiny surrounding Mandelson, who had recently stepped down from the House of Lords following revelations about a relationship with a convicted sex offender. The timing undoubtedly added another layer of complexity to Enfield’s comment.
This wasn’t the first time during the show that Enfield’s storytelling prompted an intervention. Earlier, co-host Roman Kemp had cut him off mid-anecdote, concerned about the suitability of the tale for a family-friendly, early evening audience.
Enfield’s appearance comes after previous controversy surrounding a 2007 sketch where he portrayed Nelson Mandela. He had defended the portrayal, suggesting that criticisms reflected a difference in sensitivities between British and American audiences. The comedian’s willingness to challenge norms continues to generate discussion.
The brief exchange on “The One Show” served as a reminder of the delicate balance between humor and sensitivity, and the potential for even seemingly innocuous comments to spark debate and discomfort.
