In a decision sparking major backlash, the BBC has pulled an episode of The Repair Shop after a member of the production team took offense to a ‘sexist’ handwritten joke found in Bob Monkhouse’s archives. The episode, a tribute to the late comedian, was set to feature the restoration of his iconic joke books dating back to the 1960s. However, the segment was axed after complaints over the historical humor. 
A source revealed, “A production employee came across a joke from the 1960s and took offense, thinking it was sexist. The issue was flagged, and a collective decision was made to pull the entire episode.”
Monkhouse, a beloved British TV legend who passed away in 2003, was known for his sharp wit and vast collection of handwritten jokes, cartoons, and doodles. The segment, which featured his adopted daughter Abigail Williams and long-time writing partner Colin Edmond, was to honor his legacy. But now, experts who were eager to restore the historical joke books have been left disheartened.
The BBC’s decision has left many, including Monkhouse’s family, confused and disappointed. “This has to be the most embarrassing decision the BBC has made,” a source close to the project said. 
Monkhouse’s joke books, often referred to as his ‘running files,’ were filled with thousands of pages of jokes, cartoons, and doodles, some of which may now be seen as outdated or offensive. One of the most infamous stories surrounding these books involves the theft of two volumes in 1995. After months of searching and a public reward, the books were eventually returned—though the exchange was monitored by the police.
Bob’s writing partner, Colin Edmonds, defended the content, saying, “These jokes are of their time. There were things that were acceptable in the ’70s that wouldn’t be said today.” Still, with changing times, the content of the joke books—some featuring topless women and gags that would be considered sexist today—has caused controversy.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed that the decision to pull the episode was made “out of consideration for all viewers,” while a Ricochet spokesperson explained that decisions on what items to include in the program are made based on various factors.
Is this an overreaction to a joke from a bygone era, or is the BBC right to distance itself from potentially offensive material? Let us know what you think.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
