I’m A Celeb’s Ruby Wax says ‘that’s not allowed’ as she slams BBC over show axe

Ruby Wax confronts BBC over ageism after show cancellation

Comedian and television personality Ruby Wax has never been one to shy away from speaking her mind. Recently, during her stint on the popular ITV reality series *I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!*, she made headlines once again by addressing a controversial issue: ageism in the television industry. Ruby, who is currently 72 years old and a fan favorite on the show, revealed that the BBC canceled her chat show simply because she turned 50. Her blunt statement, “that’s not allowed,” has sparked conversations about how age discrimination still persists in media.

Ruby Wax’s chat show, *When Ruby Wax Met…*, was a notable platform where she interviewed high-profile figures such as Donald Trump and Pamela Anderson. Despite the show’s success, Ruby disclosed that it was abruptly axed in the 1990s, and she believes the reason was her age. Speaking candidly during an interview with Kate Garraway on *Life Stories*, Ruby explained how the BBC replaced her with a male presenter, which she initially thought was Louis Theroux but later clarified it was another executive’s decision.

The impact of ageism on Ruby Wax’s career and mental health advocacy

Ruby Wax’s experience with the BBC’s decision to end her chat show had a profound effect on her career trajectory. Feeling sidelined because of her age, she chose to pivot her focus towards mental health awareness, a cause she passionately champions today. Ruby’s journey from a television presenter to a mental health advocate is inspiring, as she uses her platform to break down stigmas surrounding mental illness.

During her candid conversation with Kate Garraway, Ruby also reflected on her early career and friendships with comedy legends like Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders. She described these relationships as a protective “igloo” during her formative years in the entertainment industry. Despite the challenges she faced, Ruby’s resilience and humor have kept her relevant and beloved by audiences.

Ruby’s outspoken remarks about ageism highlight a broader issue within the entertainment industry, where older women often face barriers to continuing their careers. Her story encourages a much-needed dialogue about inclusivity and respect for talent regardless of age.

Conclusion

Ruby Wax’s bold criticism of the BBC’s decision to axe her show due to ageism shines a light on a persistent problem in television. Her statement that turning 50 was “not allowed” underscores the need for change in how the industry treats aging talent. As Ruby continues to thrive on *I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!* and advocate for mental health, her story serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope. If you’re inspired by Ruby’s journey and want to stay updated on her latest endeavors, be sure to follow her appearances and support her mission to combat ageism and promote mental wellness.