During a recent BBC broadcast, seasoned news anchor Martine Croxall made headlines when she deliberately chose not to say the term “pregnant people” as it appeared on her teleprompter. Instead, she quickly corrected herself by saying “women,” signaling with her eyes that she had made a conscious choice to diverge from the script.
Croxall, who has worked at the BBC for over 30 years, was reporting on a study from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine about populations vulnerable to heat-related health issues in the UK. The original script included the phrase “pregnant people” alongside terms like “the aged” and “those with pre-existing conditions.” However, Croxall seemed uncomfortable with the gender-neutral term, opting for “women” in its place.
This moment sparked a wave of conversation online. Supporters applauded her for her choice, including prominent figures like author J.K. Rowling, who publicly backed Croxall on social media. However, critics argued that avoiding gender-neutral language excludes non-binary and transgender individuals who may be pregnant.
Croxall has been vocal before about her views on gender, once stating in a debate that “sex is binary and immutable.” She later took to social media to thank her supporters, acknowledging the wide attention her on-air decision received and expressing readiness to face any consequences from her employer.
The discussion around Croxall’s choice reflects a larger, ongoing debate about language, inclusivity, and what it means to respect evolving ideas about gender. It also highlights how media personalities navigate sensitive cultural topics in real time while balancing personal beliefs and audience expectations.
