No Ofcom action over Dermot O'Leary's Comic Relief swearing

Communications watchdog Ofcom has said it will take no further action after a "very tired" Dermot O’Leary swore on live TV during his Comic Relief dance marathon.

The broadcaster, who recently left his job hosting The X Factor on ITV, raised more than £600,000 for good causes by dancing for 24 hours.

But 18 hours into his marathon effort, he greeted a friend outside New Broadcasting House in central London by saying: "how f***ing fantastic to see you".

Dermot O'Leary

Dermot O’Leary raised a massive amount with his dance marathon (James Flood/Comic Relief)

Ofcom noted O'Leary apologised within a minute and the BBC broadcast a further apology shortly afterwards.

The BBC told Ofcom it had warned all its guests not to swear, adding that O'Leary was "aware he was wearing a live microphone and that the event was being broadcast live".

The Ofcom report noted: "However, given the event had begun at 19:00 the previous evening and by the time of the incident at 13:30 the next day the BBC said Dermot O'Leary was very tired having been dancing for over 18 hours and throughout the night."

The watchdog's spokesman said: "After carefully investigating this programme, Ofcom took into account that the BBC had issued two apologies immediately after the offensive language was aired. As a result, we consider the matter resolved."

PA Media is the national news agency for the UK and Ireland. With unrivalled access to the performers, productions and celebrities on both sides of the Atlantic, PA Media stories provide an irresistible glimpse into showbiz news. Bringing you all of entertainment's big moments. From daily soaps to film productions, we cover the shows that audiences want to know about with our previews, news and interviews.