Actress Miriam Margolyes has addressed criticism following an on-air exchange with ITV presenter Andi Peters, which some viewers labeled a "racism row." During an appearance on "This Morning," Margolyes used the term "high yalla" to describe Peters' complexion.
Margolyes, 85, stated during a promotional event for her new memoir, "Miriam’s Full English," that she did not intend to offend Peters. "I didn't want to embarrass or hurt Andi because he seems very nice," she said, according to videos shared on social media.
She explained her curiosity about identity, stating, "I wanted to know what he thought about it because that's what interests me." Margolyes then used the term "cripples" while elaborating on her interest in how different groups feel about their identities. "How do black people feel? How do brown people feel? How do cripples feel? How do fat people feel?" she asked. "All of us feel something about who we are and how people see us, what they think of us."
The term "high yalla," also spelled "high yaller" or "high yellow," is an outdated and offensive slang term historically used in the United States to describe a Black person with a light complexion. The exchange on "This Morning" prompted outrage from some viewers on social media platform X, who accused Margolyes of racism.
The incident occurred when Margolyes questioned Peters about his accent, leading to a discussion about his background. When Peters confirmed both his parents are Black, Margolyes remarked, "Both parents are I think you're what I would call a 'high yalla.' That's what they call it in America. Oh, when someone isn't deeply black, right?"
Peters responded that he was unaware of such distinctions, while Margolyes stated, "There are shades."
Producers reportedly issued a warning to Peters via his earpiece, which he then announced on air, saying, "Oh, okay. They're getting nervous now. They're getting nervous now." Margolyes reassured him, adding, "Don't be nervous. We welcome everybody. That's what I want to write about in my book. It's about inclusion."
The segment in question was subsequently removed from the ITVX recording of the show. Online reactions were divided, with some viewers calling Margolyes "racist" and others suggesting her comments were ignorant rather than malicious.
Andi Peters has acknowledged the situation, telling journalist Jeremy Vine that he must be "ready for anything" during live broadcasts. Vine had commented on the interaction, calling Margolyes's remarks "seriously nerve-wracking" and praising Peters's handling of the situation.
