Rylan Clark has found himself at the center of a heated debate after a now-deleted tweet where he labelled people as ‘rude’ for their behaviour at zebra crossings sparked outrage. The BBC Radio 2 presenter took to social media to express his frustration towards pedestrians who failed to show gratitude for drivers who stopped for them at crossings. In his tweet, he emphasised the importance of basic manners, stating, “I know it’s the law…BUT SAY THANK YOU OR POP UR HAND UP. Rude pr**ks… (Stuck in traffic and annoyed).” However, following a wave of criticism from online users, Rylan swiftly removed the post.
Critics pointed out that the issue is not as straightforward as it may seem, with one user joking that Rylan was risking his ‘National Treasure’ status by targeting zebra crossing users. Another individual shared their perspective, asserting they would take their time crossing and chastise any driver who failed to respect their right of way. Rylan responded to the backlash with a dismissive tone, telling his detractors, “Some of your replies are just so 2024. Have a lovely day you rude b*****ds.”
Despite the backlash, some supporters came to Rylan’s defence, agreeing with his initial sentiment. One supporter highlighted the importance of acknowledging kind gestures while driving, echoing Rylan’s frustration. The online debate also saw users discussing the simple act of saying thank you, with some condemning those who fail to do so as entitled and rude.
In a separate online interaction, Rylan shared a GIF of Jerry Seinfeld questioning, “Where’s yo manners.” The playful exchange continued with a fan playfully asking if Rylan was still stuck in traffic. This incident follows Rylan Clark’s recent revelation about his departure from presenting the Strictly Come Dancing spin-off show, It Takes Two. After bidding farewell to the BBC programme last year, Rylan expressed gratitude for the experience and hinted at exploring new opportunities in his career.
In an interview, Rylan explained his decision to step away, emphasising the importance of introspection and self-discovery after years of a consistent career. Reflecting on his departure, he shared his eagerness to explore new paths and expressed gratitude for his time on Strictly Come Dancing. The presenter’s candid insights into his career shift shed light on the complexities of decision-making in the entertainment industry.
The incident has reignited discussions on social media etiquette and the importance of gratitude in everyday interactions. Rylan’s tweet may have been deleted, but the debate it sparked serves as a reminder of the diverse perspectives and opinions on display in the digital age. As the online discourse continues, it underscores the significance of civility and respect in our interactions, both on and off social media platforms.