LONDON – Former footballer and Match of the Day presenter Jermaine Jenas has admitted to sending ‘inappropriate’ texts to a female co-worker and said how ‘deeply sorry’ he is after the BBC sacked him.
Jenas admitted to feeling “ashamed” and disappointing many after his departure from the BBC as a presenter.
He revealed to the Sun newspaper that he had sent “inappropriate messages” to two coworkers on the One Show, but maintained that he had not broken any laws and argued that the recipients were adults who consented to the messages.
The former host of Match of the Day and One Show was let go this week following accusations of sending inappropriate messages to a female coworker.
The BBC has not provided any additional information regarding the accusations made against him.
Jenas, who is married with four children, has stated that he is undergoing therapy and acknowledges that he did not meet the BBC’s standards.
He further explained that the messages were a “serious mistake” for which he is deeply apologetic, adding that he is not a ‘sex pest’.
Jenas, who is 41 years old, expressed deep regret and said, “I’ve let everyone down – my colleagues, my friends, and most importantly, my family.”
The matter was reported to the BBC a few weeks back. The broadcaster announced his exit from the network on Thursday.
A spokesperson for the BBC confirmed Jermaine Jenas’ departure from their presenting roster.
Since Jenas’ statement to the Sun, the BBC has not issued any further statements.
