Miriam Margolyes Makes First Public Appearance Since 'Racism Row'

Miriam Margolyes attended the Pride Of Britain Awards on Monday, marking her first public appearance since a controversy involving comments made to presenter Andi Peters on "This Morning."

The 85-year-old actress appeared on the red carpet at London's Grosvenor Hotel wearing a blue dress and grey trainers. The incident in question occurred last month when Margolyes referred to Peters as 'high yalla' while discussing his background during the television program.

The term 'high yalla,' also spelled 'high yaller' or 'high yellow,' is an outdated and offensive slang term historically used in the United States to describe a Black person with light skin. Margolyes' remarks, which were removed from the ITVX recording of "This Morning," circulated widely online, drawing criticism from viewers.

During the exchange, Margolyes, after imitating Christine Lampard's Northern Irish accent, inquired about Peters' accent. Peters confirmed his parents were both Black, which led Margolyes to use the term and explain it as a description for someone who is not 'deeply black.' Peters expressed surprise, stating he was unaware of such color distinctions.

Producers reportedly intervened via Peters' earpiece, prompting him to announce on air that they were becoming nervous. Margolyes attempted to reassure him, stating, "Don't be nervous. We welcome everybody. That's what I want to write about in my book. It's about inclusion."

Following the broadcast, Margolyes addressed the incident during a promotional event for her memoir, "Miriam’s Full English." She stated that she had no intention of embarrassing or hurting Peters, whom she had not met before the show and did not initially recognize as Black. She explained her interest was in understanding how different groups, including Black and brown people, as well as individuals with disabilities or those who are overweight, perceive themselves and are perceived by others.

Margolyes asserted, "I am fascinated by other people. They are the people that interest me... What their story is, what made them who they are, why you are the way you are."