BBC News presenter Martine Croxall refuses to say ‘pregnant people,’ corrects script live on air: ‘WOMEN!’

A BBC News presenter was quick to correct the phrase “pregnant people” to “women” live on air — punctuating the moment with an eye roll as she read from the teleprompter.

Martine Croxall, who has worked at the BBC for more than three decades, was seen rolling her eyes at the language used in the original newscast’s script — before she swiftly took matters into her own hands.

During Saturday’s daytime newscast, Croxall read aloud a story about which groups were most at risk for heat-related illnesses.

As she read out new research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical, the autocue prompted her to warn that “pregnant people” should take extra care in Britain’s currently sweltering heatwave.

After reading “pregnant people,” Croxall immediately corrected the original script to “women” before rolling her eyes.

“Malcom Mistry, who was involved in the research, says that the aged, pregnant people — women! — and those with pre-existing health conditions need to take precautions,” the news anchor said.

It wasn’t long before the newscast went viral on social media, with thousands of people thrusting their support behind Croxall’s decision to alter the language used.

BBC presenter reads “pregnant people” from the teleprompter and then corrects it to “women”.

Takes a brave, brave lady to do this at the BBC. 😅 pic.twitter.com/TXsmO6RHbW

— Hazel Appleyard (@HazelAppleyard_) June 22, 2025

Among her most ardent supporters was “Harry Potter” author JK Rowling, who rushed to praise the newsreader on social media.

“I have a new favorite BBC presenter,” Rowling wrote on X.

Croxall, for her part, broke her silence over the ordeal on social media Sunday night following the mass media attention the moment has garnered.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has chosen to follow me today for whatever reason,” she wrote on X, alongside a photo of herself during the newscast. “It’s been quite a ride…”

The journalist also replied individually to followers who had reached out to her throughout the day, including one who hoped she wouldn’t be “hauled” in front of BBC bosses.

“Braced x,” Croxall responded to the well wisher, proving she’s unfazed by whatever repercussions may come her way.

She later clarified that the clip of her correcting “pregnant people” to “women” was not AI after several people questioned its authenticity.

Croxall has been working for the BBC for more than 30 years, kickstarting her tenure in 1991.

In 2001, she joined the BBC News team and has since fronted a wide range of programs including World News Today, BBC Weekend News, Dateline London and BBC News at One.