BBC Breakfast star 'devastated' as fans fume over 'embarrassing' segment

A BBC Breakfast star was left "devastated" as fans fumed over an "embarrassing" segment on Wednesday (August 27).

During today's edition of the popular morning show, presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay kept fans up to date with the latest news from across the UK and around the globe.

John Watson was also in the studio to deliver the sports news, while Carol Kirkwood provided regular weather updates.

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However, the show took an unexpected turn when John attempted to break a Guinness World Record live on air.

His challenge was to hold as many table tennis balls in his hand as possible, while a nervous Sally and adjudicator Craig Glenday looked on, reports the Express.

"The tension in the studio this morning is palpable. John's quite nervous, I think," Sally observed.

Craig then outlined what John had to do: "So, this is an official Guinness World Record attempt for the most table tennis balls held in one hand. I've measured them, they're 40mm, that's all good.

"[You can] use one hand to put the balls into the other, and when you feel you've had enough, say go, and I'll start the stopwatch, and you must hold them there for 30 seconds."

Craig mentioned that this was a "vacant" category waiting for the right person to fill it, saying: "I think John's the man."

John managed to hold 14 balls for 30 seconds, though he was aiming for at least six more than that.

"I'm devastated," the disheartened presenter said. "Sorry, guys."

Craig then disclosed that John didn't set the record, as the set minimum was 30 balls.

BBC viewers were left disgruntled after watching the segment, with many venting their frustration on X (formerly Twitter).

"What the hell is going on?" one viewer questioned, while another chimed in: "What a balls up."

A third asked: "Can I get a refund on my licence fee?" and another similarly queried: "Could BBC Breakfast get any lower? Guinness World Record."

A fifth person questioned: "Is this relevant on a news programme?" while another shared: "Embarrassing. Turn on for news and get this nonsense."

BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am