BBC Pulls Blackface Scenes From Mitchell & Webb's Show, Fans Outraged

**BBC Removes Blackface Sketches From 'That Mitchell and Webb Look' After 20-Year Anniversary Release**

The BBC has removed several sketches, including those featuring Blackface, from the sitcom *That Mitchell and Webb Look* after making the series available on its streaming platform, iPlayer.

The two‑hour comedy, starring former *Peep Show* actors David Mitchell and Robert Webb, was reinstated to celebrate its twentieth anniversary. Reddit users noted that many episodes seemed different, with up to eleven sketches missing from the online version.

A BBC spokesperson said, “That Mitchell and Webb Look has been made available on BBC iPlayer. This is a 20‑year‑old sketch show; in consultation with the programme makers, we have included the ones that still work today and not the ones that don’t.”

## Background & Context

First broadcast in 2005, *That Mitchell and Webb Look* quickly became known for its absurdist sketches and sharp social commentary. The show has never shied from pushing boundaries, yet it has also faced criticism over the years for content that some viewers now deem insensitive.

Earlier this year the BBC removed *Little Britain* and *Mighty Boosh* from iPlayer in similar disputes over outdated or offensive material, showing a pattern of curation based on contemporary standards. The decision reflects the BBC’s ongoing efforts to align older programming with contemporary standards.

The specific sketches removed from this show include an English Civil War reenactment set in the Democratic Republic of Congo and a parody of a makeover show featuring Olivia Colman. In the former, Mitchell asks, “Are you absolutely sure that this isn’t racist?” and later both characters agree to stop when they sense racism.

Mitchell and Webb, whose earlier work on *Peep Show* built a reputation for biting satire, crafted *That Mitchell and Webb Look* with a focus on absurdity and cultural critique. Their decision to remove certain sketches reflects a broader shift in how the BBC curates legacy programming for contemporary audiences.

The sketches removed were seen as outmoded by contemporary standards, particularly those involving Blackface and depictions that could perpetuate racial stereotypes. The BBC’s decision to exclude them signals a shift toward a more culturally conscious catalog.

That Mitchell and Webb Look garnered acclaim for its quick wit and sharp satire, earning a loyal fan base that continues to watch the series years later. Their legacy remains influential in British comedy.

## What People Are Saying

British comedian Dom Jolly weighed in on the BBC’s decision, calling the cuts “hysterical censorship.” He echoed that the broadcaster is being consistent in deleting scenes that no longer fit current sensibilities.

Social media users expressed mixed reactions, with some praising the effort to align past content with modern values and others accusing the BBC of erasing artistic history. This split reflects broader societal tensions over nostalgia and progress.

, the removal was made in consultation with the programme makers, implying that Mitchell and Webb approved of the edits. This indicates a collaborative approach between the broadcaster and the creators.

The BBC’s pattern of editing older content has sparked debate about artistic integrity versus social responsibility. Previous removals of shows like *Little Britain* and *Mighty Boosh* have set a precedent for how the broadcaster addresses potentially offensive material.

Viewers on Reddit noted that some missing sketches were among their favorites, sparking debate over artistic preservation versus modern sensibilities. They argue that altering legacy content erases cultural history.

## What Happens Next

The series remains available on iPlayer with the revised episode list, but there has been no statement about restoring the removed sketches. Users can stream the remaining episodes at any time.

Fans can still watch the remaining content and are encouraged to view the show within its historical context. They are encouraged to view the show within its historical context.

The iPlayer version of *That Mitchell and Webb Look* remains fully accessible, allowing viewers to enjoy the curated episodes without encountering the removed material. No changes are expected until a future review.

The BBC may revisit older content as societal views shift, but no timeline has been announced. However, no timeline has been announced.

The conversation illustrates the evolving dialogue around media legacy. It underscores the ongoing debate over media legacy.