Channel 4 News faced an epic blunder as its host was left scrambling by his awkward gaffe.
On Thursday (11) it was confirmed that OJ Simpson had died aged 76 following a battle with prostate cancer. The death of the NFL icon was confirmed via a statement from his family.
The news of OJ’s passing was swiftly reported on news channels in the UK – including Channel 4. But one host made a major gaffe when confirming his death on-air.
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Covering the afternoon slot, Matt Frei was on hand to host the show. In the ad break before the news programme started, he gave fans a brief rundown of the trending news – including OJ’s death.
He said: “OJ Simpson dies of cancer, at the age of 76.” However, Matt fluffed up his words and said the wrong profession that OJ was known for.
In the video, he announced: “Here is what’s coming up tonight on Channel 4 news. A former post office boss apologises at the inquiry into the Horizon scandal for appearing to celebrate the 2010 conviction of a pregnant sub-postmistress.”
(Image: Channel 4)
But things soon took an awkward turn as Matt found himself tongue-tied. The newsreader went on: “The rockstar,” before suddenly stopping himself.
Flustered, he then proceeded to mumble his words before throwing his hands in the air. Still mumbling, the show then appeared to cut.
A clip of the awkward moment soon made its rounds online. One user shared the clip and wrote: “So this just happened on Channel 4.”
(Image: Channel 4)
Social media users were quick to respond with one saying: “Oh no.” Someone else added: “Oh yes – OJ Simpson – that famous rockstar.” A third penned: “It’s the shaking head for me.”
The statement confirming OJ’s death read: “On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace – the Simpson Family.” Simpson’s prostate cancer diagnosis was revealed back in February, with his family confirming that he was undergoing chemotherapy.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
