Pablo Motos apologizes for sexist joke against Sarah Santaolalla on 'El hormiguero': 'We will strive for it not to happen again'
Pablo Motos publicly apologizes for a sexist remark made on his show against guest Sarah Santaolalla, following backlash from viewers and public organizations.
In a move reflecting the increasing scrutiny of sexist remarks in media, television host Pablo Motos took the unusual step of apologizing during his show 'El hormiguero' for a comment made by a guest that disparaged commentator Sarah Santaolalla. Motos addressed the controversy head-on, stating that the remark, described as 'half silly and half breasts', was undeserving of the platform, which garners a massive viewership in Spain. He emphasized that such statements do not align with the show's values and vowed to ensure that similar incidents would not reoccur.
The comment in question originated from journalist Rosa Belmonte during a debate segment on the program, although she did not directly name Santaolalla. Following public outcry, including responses from the targeted individual and various organizations advocating against sexism, Motos sought to mitigate the situation. In his apology, he positioned himself and the program against the culture of normalizing such comments, suggesting a commitment to fostering a more respectful discourse.
Motos' actions underline the accountability that media personalities face in the current climate of social awareness regarding sexism. The apology not only addresses the specific incident but also reflects a broader acknowledgment of the responsibility that media outlets have in promoting equality and respecting all individuals. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to challenge and change sexist narratives in public forums, which can have significant cultural impacts.