ITC says Norton breached code

Thirty-two viewers complained to the Independent Television Commission over a "joke" made by chat show host Graham Norton shortly after the death of Maurice Gibb.

In its programme complaints report, the ITC says that the viewers said Norton's comments were "offensive, objectionable and in extremely poor taste." Norton remarked on Monday, January 13: "I bet the heart monitor was singing the tune of Staying Alive."

Channel 4 explained the joke by saying it was meant as an "affectionate reference," and that the target was the music of the Bee Gees rather than Maurice Gibb's death. The ITC however said that while taking Channel 4's explanation into account, the joke was "offensive to public feeling," and that the programme breached the ITC Code.

Channel 4 has already apologised, saying on Wednesday, January 15: "Graham is known for his cheeky, irreverent humour. But we are sorry if he caused any offence to viewers."