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Paxman branded 'rude' on Twitter for savaging shy student on University Challenge over wrong answer
- Published_at:2013-02-13
- Category:News & Politics
- Channel:Dave Brave
- tags:
- description: When it comes to getting answers out of politicians, his abrasive manner certainly achieves results. But you might expect Jeremy Paxman to tone it down somewhat when the ones taking the questions are undergraduates on University Challenge. The presenter has been labelled 'rude', 'nasty' and a 'bully' by viewers who took exception to his treatment of a nervous contestant on the BBC2 quiz show -- with one even commenting: 'Why not just spit in his face, Paxman?' Third-year medical student Tom Tyszczuk Smith, representing University College London, found himself receiving the brunt of Paxman's ire during a quarter-final match against a team from the University of Bangor on Monday. During one quick-fire round, the 20-year-old from Cambridge was met with a barrage of scorn by the broadcaster, 62, who also hosts current affairs show Newsnight. In a question open to whoever pressed their buzzer first, he asked: "The liberties of England and the Protestant religion I will maintain." Which royal figure made that claim when he landed at Brixham, in Devon, in 1688?" A rival contestant buzzed before Paxman had finished speaking and wrongly answered: 'Elizabeth I'. But the presenter reserved his derision for Mr Tyszczuk Smith, who came in quickly afterwards and suggested William I instead. Looking incredulous, Paxman exclaimed: 'No! William I? No I'm sorry that's the wrong answer and you know it's very wrong.' Raising his eyebrows, he added: 'It's only out by about 600 years or so. Anyway no, it's William of Orange of course, William III.' Mr Tyszczuk Smith seemed shaken by the presenter's reaction, putting his hand nervously to his face and shaking his head. He said: 'Sorry, sorry, no I'm sorry,' and kept his head lowered for much of the remainder of the game. Writing on Twitter, one viewer said: 'Tyszczuk Smith looks like he's on the verge of crying. Paxman you meany!'
| ranked in date | views | likes | Comments | ranked in country (#position) |
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| 2013-02-16 | 3,327 | 2 | 9 |
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| 2013-02-17 | 4,685 | 2 | 11 |
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