During a BBC broadcast, veteran anchor Martine Croxall appeared to avoid saying “pregnant people” from the teleprompter, instead saying “women” and signaling her disagreement with a glance.
Croxall, who has worked at the BBC since 1991, was discussing those most at risk from heat-related illnesses, referencing research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Social media quickly lit up, with support and backlash. J.K. Rowling praised Croxall, calling her her “new favourite BBC presenter.”
The term “pregnant people” is used to be inclusive of trans and non-binary individuals, though it remains controversial. Croxall has previously stated that “sex is binary and immutable.”
On social media, she thanked followers for their support and acknowledged she might face consequences from BBC leadership.
The incident has become part of the broader national debate around gendered language and inclusion.