Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Minister for Women and Equalities, and actor David Tennant have engaged in a public dispute following Tennant’s comments at the British LGBT Awards. Tennant, who received an award for being a “celebrity ally,” used his acceptance speech to criticise Badenoch, wishing she would “shut up” regarding her stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
“Until we wake up and Kemi Badenoch doesn’t exist anymore – I don’t wish ill of her, I just wish her to shut up – whilst we do live in this world, I am honoured to receive this award,” Tennant said during his speech on June 21.
In response, Badenoch took to social media, describing Tennant as a “rich, lefty, white male celebrity” and rejecting his call for her to be silent. She posted, “I will not shut up. I will not be silenced by men who prioritise applause from Stonewall over the safety of women and girls,” and accused Tennant of being blinded by ideology.
Badenoch, known for her controversial views on LGBTQ+ rights, has been criticised for blocking conversion therapy legislation and spreading misinformation about trans identities. Tennant, in contrast, has been praised for his active support of the LGBTQ+ community, often speaking out on trans rights and supporting LGBTQ+ causes through his public appearances and actions.
The public reaction to Badenoch’s posts has largely sided with Tennant, with many social media users criticising her stance and predicting political changes following the upcoming General Election. Some responses highlighted her perceived hypocrisy, referencing her dismissal of racist comments made by Conservative Party donor Frank Hester about Labour MP Diane Abbott.
Labour candidate Dawn Butler also weighed in, supporting Tennant’s remarks and emphasising that not all Black women share the same views, stating, “I agree with David Tennant. That’s it, that’s the tweet.”
