Complaints over Rowan Atkinson

Broadcast watchdog Ofcom is to investigate Rowan Atkinson’s Comic Relief sketch in which he played a fictional Archbishop of Canterbury.

In the scene, he said 'praying doesn't work' and that just because Jesus said love your neighbours, ‘it doesn't mean shag your neighbours’.

After receiving more than 2,200 complaints, the BBC apologised and removed the scene from iPlayer.

Now Ofcom has said it is to launch its own investigation, believed to centre on potentially offensive language and possible breach of accepted standards. It received a further 480 complaints.

The BBC said Comic Relief has become ‘known for pushing at the boundaries of comedy alongside heartfelt appeal films’ but apologised for any offence caused.

Published: 22 Apr 2013