Gogglebox star Giles Wood has caused controversy after mocking a very recognisable Northern English accent on this week's programme. Gogglebox on Friday (March 31) saw the well-spoken Wiltshire resident chatting with his wife Mary Killen in their usual seats.
They were watching Tempting Fortune hosted by Lancashire native Paddy McGuinness. The premise of the programme, on Channel 4, sees 12 strangers trek across South Africa with a shared £300k prize pot which they will all have access to for purchasing individual luxuries.
Paddy was onscreen explaining this when Giles, comfortable in his armchair, took exception to the way the 49-year-old presenter pronounced the word 'shared'.
"Shurred," Giles repeated in his best attempt at a Lancashire accent. "He pronounces 'shared' funny'."
Mary jumps straight in, saying: "Nutty, it's a hate crime. It's a new hate crime - mocking people's language."
Giles defends his mockery, saying: "No, it's just an accent I'm not familiar with, so he says 'shurred' instead of 'shared'."
Mary makes a strong point when she responds: "Yeah, well you say 'shared' and other people might be mocking you."
But Giles isn't done: "Yeah, well that's what England used to be all about, was mocking each other's accents. Everything's changed now."
Sara @Mabel_Mouse_ on Twitter took exception to Mary's response: “Nutty, it’s a hate crime mocking people’s language” Is it? Since when? #Gogglebox "
But the comment really hit Amy Joanne @AmyJoanne__'s funnybone as she tweeted: "A hate crime omg #gogglebox " with a crying laughing emoji.
Phil @Man_in_England thinks Giles is onto something with his nostalgic wistfulness, saying: "Exactly Giles. We were once allowed a non malicious, friendly p*ss take. #Gogglebox"
Your Madgesty @MadgeHooks added: "Giles and his hate crimes! #Gogglebox #thinedgeofthewedge"
