The BBC is understood to have thrown support behind Maxine Croxall, who recently corrected a news report from “pregnant people” to “pregnant women” during a live broadcast.
While several high-profile faces backed the journalist online, there was some concern she may face consequences from the broadcaster.
Defying the language written in the script, Croxall, 56, stated during the report: “Malcolm Mistry, who was involved in the research, says that the aged, pregnant people… women… and those with pre-existing health conditions need to take precautions.”
Despite the concern that followed, it’s thought the BBC have responded in an “intensely relaxed” manner.
A BBC source told The Times: “It’s a real cultural moment,” before detailing the support from co-stars for the use of “honest language.”
Among those who took to social media to applaud the moment was Harry Potter author JK Rowling, who labelled Croxall her “new favourite BBC presenter” on X.
Croxall herself acknowledged the moment with her own post, sharing on X: “A huge thank you to everyone who has chosen to follow me today for whatever reason. It’s been quite a ride…”
It’s thought the broadcaster gained close to 50,000 social media followers since the report, which aired on Sunday.
The casual response comes after an incident which saw Justin Webb, a host on Radio 4’s Today, being found to have breached BBC guidelines for the way in which he described a transgender woman during a debate about chess.
Webb came under fire for stating: “In other words, male,” in August 2023 as the group discussed whether or not men have an advantage in chess.
It’s understood BBC chairman Samir Shah was dismayed by the radio incident, which took place before he joined the broadcaster.
The apparent shift comes after the Supreme Court ruling earlier this year, which found the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex.
The BBC’s style guide doesn’t state that “people” need to be referred to when talking about pregnancy, with the guide encouraging “appropriate language” when it comes to gender.
It states to use gender pronouns “preferred by the person in question, unless there are editorial reasons not to do so.”
Rowling directed concern about the Croxall’s job as she responded on X to a post, writing: “You’d better not be in any trouble…”
Another X user commented: “You are a hero. Is your job safe?” with another commenting: “You just gained a hell of a lot of new fans.”
“We’re all hoping you’re still employed tomorrow,” a different social media user penned.
Someone else noted: “Your eyeroll is masterful!” while another shared: “You’re an absolute hero Martine, good for you and we are all behind you.”
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One more enthused: “Good for you. I both laughed and applauded.
“If any sanction or disciplinary action comes your way from the BBC there will be riots. You are now the people’s reporter!” (sic)
