This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

ITV News has apologised for using footage of Ainsley Harriott in a segment about Lenny Henry receiving a knighthood.

The footage of the celebrity chef dancing was shown between an interview with the comedian and a clip of him in one of his roles.

It is understood that ITV News has been in touch with representatives of both Henry and Harriott to apologise.



Lenny Henry reiterates his call for a 'sea change' on diversity Read more

ITV has since removed the clip from the report on its +1 channel, instead displaying a message saying it was “not legally” allowed to show the content.

An ITV spokesperson said: “ITV News apologises for the error broadcast in the lunchtime news package today regarding Sir Lenny Henry’s knighthood at the palace. This was the result of an error in the production process in a piece intended to celebrate Sir Lenny’s significant achievements in British entertainment.”

Henry, who was knighted for services to charity and drama, dedicated the honour to anyone who had taken part in Comic Relief and vowed to continue campaigning to improve diversity in the media.

He has campaigned for better representation of black, Asian and minority ethnic people both on screen and behind the camera. Earlier this month he called for a “sea change” on diversity, including ringfenced funding to promote programmes made by and featuring minorities.