Smith blasts BBC over 'Mastermind'

Mel Smith has criticised the BBC for not explaining that his strange performance on Celebrity Mastermind was caused by an illness.

The comedian, who appeared to be slurring his words on Wednesday's show, explained that he had a problem with his throat.

"My throat specialist feared I had cancer," he said. "I spent three weeks in agony in hospital. It turned out I had a virulent throat infection and I'm now OK. It was disappointing the BBC would not give an explanation."

A spokesperson for the BBC this week disclosed details of the 56-year-old's condition as concerns about his health grew.

"Mel did it for a charity and didn't want to let [viewers] down, despite not being well," said the representative.