BBC South Today weather presenter Alexis Green experienced a moment of live television mishap while reporting from Oxford on recent flooding. During the broadcast, Alexis, who was reporting by the River Thames, stumbled over her words as she sought to explain how residents have adapted to recurrent flooding, particularly recalling the severe floods of 2007.
The incident occurred just after in-studio newsreader Jo Kent handed over to Alexis, who was dressed in a black puffer jacket for the outdoor segment. Initially, Alexis delivered her report smoothly, stating: "Residents here have learnt to live with flooding over the years and some say the 2007 floods were the worst they've ever experienced." However, as she attempted to continue discussing the impact of climate change on rainfall patterns, she hesitated and then faltered: "Now, with a warming climate, rainfall is expected to become heavier and more persistent in the future... Which is why people here have taken matters into their own homes, hou-, own, own, hands."
Quickly recovering, Alexis rephrased her remarks, clarifying: "Basically, to protect their homes and their businesses." It was her reaction to the verbal stumble that drew a chorus of amusement from viewers. On camera, she was seen giving a playful grimace and articulating a lighthearted gesture acknowledging her slip-up.
Despite the live blunder, the broadcast seamlessly moved on to a pre-recorded segment featuring Alexis strolling beside the river, but the comical moment remained accessible in the version available on BBC iPlayer. The incident sparked a lively response on social media platforms, with fans expressing their appreciation for the authenticity of live TV. One social media user on X commented: "@AlexisGreenTV we love you as much as we love live TV," while others shared humorous takes such as "Alexis Green.exe has malfunctioned" and highlighted her facial expressions with laughing emojis.
This episode is not an isolated occurrence of on-air slip-ups at the BBC. The Bristol Post also recalls a 2023 incident involving BBC Breakfast presenter Ben Boulos. During a live discussion, Ben mistakenly interpreted a guest’s dystonia-induced head movements as disagreement. The guest, retail analyst Teresa Wickham, has a brain disorder characterised by involuntary muscle spasms, which was later clarified. The clip went viral on TikTok and brought increased awareness about dystonia, a condition defined by the NHS as uncontrollable and sometimes painful muscle movements that can affect daily life but may be managed with treatment. Reflecting on this, Ben Boulos conveyed to co-host Sarah Campbell that he was "mortified" by the misunderstanding but emphasised the unpredictable nature of live broadcasting, where minor errors can quickly gain widespread attention.
The recent live moment involving Alexis Green is a reminder of the spontaneous challenges faced by live presenters and highlighted the good humour they often display when unexpected moments occur on air.
Source: Noah Wire Services