TV

BBC presenter topples into swimming pool live on air

His story well and truly made a splash

BBC sports presenter Mike Bushell made a splash during a live interview earlier today as he fell into a swimming pool.

Mike was preparing to chat to five England swimmers on BBC Breakfast – who were sitting on the edge of a small pool – on Australia’s Gold Coast, where the Commonwealth Games are being held.

And as Mike got into the shallow water for the chat, he said: “I’m going to be careful because I’ve got a sound pack on.”

Even at this stage, this doesn’t seem like a good idea for live TV (Credit: BBC)

Read more: Viewers accuse BBC Breakfast of losing the plot with ‘car crash TV’ interview about SLIME

However, just moments later, Bushell failed to follow his own advice and slipped into the deeper water having not seen there was another step beneath his feet.

Athletes Sarah Vasey, Adam Peaty, Siobhan-Marie O’Connor, Ben Proud and James Guyfell all collapsed into fits of giggles as Mike tried to steady himself and continue the interview.

“All the people here are literally on the floor,” Mike quipped, referring to the amused camera crew.

Mike stacks it (Credit: BBC)

Don’t miss out: Three steps to ensure you see all ED!’s latest news on Facebook

The interview was cut short though as Mike’s sound equipment appeared to suffered some water damage.

“I just thought it was a little Jacuzzi or a kid’s pool,” Mike later reflected.

“I didn’t realise there was a step there!”

Back in the BBC Breakfast studio, presenters Charlie Stayt and Louise Minchin teased their colleague over his pool flop.

“Mike is carrying on talking but we can’t hear him, because a moment ago Mike fell in the water, his pack went in, and he doesn’t know we can’t hear him now,” said Charlie.

“Bye, Mike, it hasn’t been dull.”

Louise had to wipe away a tear (Credit: BBC)

Louise added: “If you were going to set that up, you would imagine that might happen… and it did. Live on national television.”

Viewers were also in stitches over the blunder, with one calling the moment “priceless” on Twitter.

Another said Mike’s tumble into the water had ‘made their day’.

BBC Breakfast is on BBC, weekdays from 6am.

Did you see Mike fall into the pool this morning? Did it tickle your funny bone? Have your say by leaving us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix!


Robert Leigh
Freelance writer

Related Topics