BBC Viewers Mistake Sign Language Interpreter for Prime Minister Andy Burnham's 'Stunt Double'

BBC viewers expressed surprise and amusement after a sign language interpreter on screen bore a striking resemblance to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, leading some to humorously dub him a "stunt double."

The interpreter appeared during a BBC News segment featuring an interview with Burnham and the BBC's political editor, Chris Mason. The individual had short black hair, thick-rimmed glasses, dark eyebrows, and wore a suit, white shirt, and tie that closely matched the Prime Minister's attire, amplifying the perceived likeness.

Social media users quickly commented on the uncanny resemblance. One X user remarked, "Impressive work from BBC News finding Andy Burnham’s sign-language stunt double," while another joked about the UK needing a backup plan for the Prime Minister. A further quip suggested, "Unlike Putin, Andy Burnham will be totally upfront when he uses a body double!"

However, the interpreter has been identified as Matthew Banks, a professional interpreter and lawyer. Banks grew up with two deaf parents and earned a law degree from the University of Cambridge. He later completed a Master of Arts in British Sign Language (BSL) interpreting.

Banks dedicated two decades to working as an advocate and full-time BSL interpreter before beginning a pupillage at Garden Court Chambers in London in 2023. He has also been involved in co-ordinating the Deaf Legal Network, an initiative aimed at helping deaf individuals access legal services.

In a separate, earlier BBC News appearance, Banks was seen humorously fumbling his glasses while enthusiastically interpreting a sign, which he then removed and continued his work unfazed. This incident also circulated online, though it did not detract from his professional interpretation.