Ricky Gervais Cleared Over Susan Boyle 'Mong' Comment

Ricky Gervais did not break broadcasting rules by using the word 'mong', the TV watchdog said yesterday (January 23).

The Office actor used the word in a live routine about singer Susan Boyle, which was recorded and shown on Channel 4 last year.

In the routine he said: "I don't think she'd be where she was today if it wasn't for the fact that she looked like such a f*cking mong."

Speaking last year, Gervais denied using the word to refer to a Down's sufferer. He responded: "The modern use of the word means dopey or ignorant."

Ofcom investigated after thousands of viewers complained but it cleared Channel 4 of breaching rules on offensive content.

It said the word had "potential to cause considerable offence" — but was justified in a "provocative comedy routine".
The Down's Syndrome Association said last night it had contacted him and was satisfied he would no longer use the word.