The new TLC panel show "Unacceptable" has been described as a "sneering, insulting shambles" by critics, with particular attention drawn to host Romesh Ranganathan's commentary on the Royal Family. During the program, Ranganathan reportedly mocked the death of Princess Diana, calling the royals "our longest-running soap opera" and referencing "marriages, deaths, fights, affairs... car crashes."
The show, which features comedians on two teams, has been compared to existing formats like BBC1's "Would I Lie To You?" and U&Dave's "Unforgivable." Other comedians on the panel, including Joanne McNally, contributed to the controversial segments. McNally suggested "Harry could do a DNA test live," while Ranganathan reportedly made a libellous insult about the Prince and Princess of Wales.
A point of contention highlighted by critics is Ranganathan's alleged hypocrisy. He reportedly made accusations of racism, pretending a royal aide booked him to be a waiter and stand-up comic at a palace event. However, sources indicate Ranganathan has appeared twice on the Royal Variety Performance, hosting it in 2019, and entertained at a palace staff Christmas party, having been noticed by Charles and Camilla.
Panelists also made jokes about controversial topics. Katherine Ryan reportedly proposed that "all men should have vasectomies at birth," and segments involved making cases for mildly offensive statements such as "I truly believe women aren't funny" and "cheating once doesn't count."
Critics also noted what they perceived as ragged editing and questioned the format's effectiveness, suggesting producers may be testing different rounds. The show features comedians such as Roisin Conaty and Katherine Ryan, with Ed Gamble serving as compere. The article also briefly mentions Alexander Armstrong appearing naked on "Across America" (Ch5) as a separate, less significant note.