The Repair Shop, the beloved BBC show, is facing increasing backlash after reports revealed that a segment featuring legendary comedian Bob Monkhouse’s jokes was removed from an upcoming episode. The decision left fans in shock, with many calling it “a total embarrassment.”
The segment, which focused on restoring one of Monkhouse’s iconic joke notebooks, was set to feature his old writing partner Colin Edmonds and his late adopted daughter Abigail Williams. The notebooks contained a collection of Bob’s jokes and handwritten material, collected over his decades-long career.
But the segment was reportedly pulled after a member of the production team raised concerns about the nature of some of Monkhouse’s jokes, which were said to be “sexist.”
Fans of The Repair Shop have lashed out (Credit: BBC)
A source told The Sun: “BBC has been ridiculed for focusing too much on being ‘woke,’ but this really is a step too far. A production staffer stumbled upon one of Bob’s jokes—definitely from the 1960s—and was offended, thinking it was sexist.”
In response, BBC explained that production decisions on The Repair Shop were made with “consideration for all viewers.”
The Jokes Spark Debate
The controversial jokes soon surfaced online, fueling an intense debate among viewers. One of the jokes reportedly went: “I’m not saying my wife can’t cook, but she uses the smoke alarm as a timer.” Another read: “I can still enjoy it at 74 – I live at 75, so not too far off.”
Bob died in 2003 but his jokes are raising eyebrows decades on (Credit: Des O’Connor Tonight / YouTube)
Another line reportedly said: “I bought my wife a horse. I thought it was a fair trade.”
While some fans found the jokes outdated, many others believe they reflect the era in which they were written and performed.
BBC Faces Backlash Over Monkhouse’s Legacy
The decision to cut the segment has sparked a strong reaction from fans and supporters of Bob Monkhouse, with many taking to social media to express their frustration.
One viewer commented, “One person says they’re offended, and a whole segment gets pulled? Ridiculous. It’s just a joke, not a big deal. Not everyone who gets offended is right. Who cares? Be tough and get on with it.”
Another added, “People can judge for themselves. Anyone with a little intelligence will understand that he came from a different time and culture.”
A third person wrote, “Bob Monkhouse was a comedic genius, beloved and admired. His joke books are full of humor reflecting decades in the entertainment industry. His jokes were written for an audience of that time. Most people are emotionally mature enough to understand that. Some people just won’t get it. Shame on you, BBC.”
However, some agreed that the jokes shouldn’t be aired during prime-time TV.
“These jokes are from the past, the world has changed, and I support BBC’s decision!” one fan said. “This doesn’t stop me from watching The Repair Shop – it’s the best show on TV!” another fan added.
