Alex Horne, the brain behind the much-loved show Taskmaster, has spoken out against the appalling abuse aimed at comedian Rosie Jones. The creator and co-host, known for his wit and calm demeanor, has expressed his anger over the hateful messages Jones has received online.
Rosie Jones, a comedian and actor who has cerebral palsy, has been a contestant on Taskmaster and is celebrated for her sharp humor and incredible comedic timing. However, her rise to fame has not been without challenges, particularly online. Jones has frequently been targeted by trolls who mock her disability and performance, a behavior Alex Horne describes as “really disgusting.”
In a recent interview, Horne didn’t hold back his feelings, saying, “Rosie is one of the funniest, most talented people I’ve worked with. Seeing her face such vile comments is heartbreaking. It’s not just disappointing; it’s infuriating.”
Horne, who prides himself on creating a platform that celebrates unique talent, believes the abuse goes against everything Taskmaster stands for. The show, which thrives on highlighting the quirks and creativity of its contestants, has been a launching pad for numerous comedians and performers from diverse backgrounds.
Rosie Jones has addressed the online hate in the past, urging people to focus on kindness and understanding. Despite the abuse, she continues to thrive, working on new projects and even penning a book, proving her resilience and determination.
Fans of the show and of Rosie Jones have also rallied around her, flooding social media with messages of support. Many have called for stricter measures to tackle online abuse, emphasizing the need to hold individuals accountable for their words.
Alex Horne’s public stand against the hate reflects a growing movement within the entertainment industry to protect and support talent from marginalized communities. As Horne said, “We have a responsibility to not just entertain, but to ensure everyone involved feels safe and respected.”
With more public figures like Alex Horne speaking out, the hope is that platforms will take stronger actions against online abuse. Rosie Jones, meanwhile, continues to be a beacon of strength, inspiring fans and fellow performers alike to rise above the negativity.