Charlene White and Jan Leeming exchange remarks over presenting style

Former BBC newsreader Jan Leeming has sparked controversy following social media comments directed at ITV News presenter Charlene White. In posts on X, Leeming criticized White’s presenting style, describing it as “condescending” and suggesting she addresses viewers “as if we were children.” Leeming further questioned White’s suitability as a newsreader, comparing her unfavorably to Mary Nightingale.

White responded to the remarks, calling them “disrespectful” and noting the difficulty Black women face in the industry. She expressed surprise that a journalist she had admired since childhood would criticize her on social media, suggesting the comments felt like something from a “bygone era.”

Leeming subsequently issued an apology, clarifying that her critique was based on delivery style rather than race. She stated, “It has nothing to do with colour,” and expressed her belief that it is currently easier for BAME individuals to succeed in various fields.