Paddy McGuinness's upcoming sitcom named 'Paddy', which draws on his life and divorce, has been cancelled by the BBC due to worries that it might come off as "distasteful and insensitive" toward his ex-wife Christine.
The show, after a trial episode, was on the cusp of being greenlit by the broadcaster, with the 51-year-old comedian and writer starring as himself in a mockumentary spoof exploring a comic's split-up.
They even filmed at an Airbnb posing as Paddy's abode, featuring comedian Josh Pugh. However, sources disclose the BBC now deems involvement in their separation unwise.
Paddy and Christine parted ways in July 2022, ending their marriage of 11 years. They have three children—twins Penelope and Leo, 10, and Felicity, seven. Their divorce settled this summer, yet they continue sharing their £2.5million Cheshire mansion for their kids' well-being.
Christine—who works as a model—was distressed when she read about the sitcom earlier this year. A friend shared with the Mirror her reaction.
They said: "Christine is distraught that their divorce is going to be the butt of the jokes. She's completely broken over the divorce and we are genuinely worried about her."
However, it is believed that the mockumentary has now been cancelled. An insider revealed to Mail Online: "The BBC has decided not to go ahead with Paddy's mockumentary. Some thought it would be distasteful and insensitive to Christine, and were reluctant to be seen like they were taking sides in the messy break-up."
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Paddy has already removed jokes about his divorce from his stand-up show after causing distress to his ex-wife by making light of their painful separation.
The comedian is currently touring with his Nearly There show, and on Thursday he performed for the first time since sources close to Christine disclosed she had been "horrified" that Paddy made jibes on stage.
During his latest performance in Middlesbrough, Paddy omitted any reference to his high-profile split from Christine. A BBC spokesperson told Mail Online: "We do not comment on pilots."
Paddy McGuinness's representatives declined to comment to the publication. The Mirror has independently reached out to the team.
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