Historic Social Media Posts Reveal Offensive Language by Ashley Cain
Warning: This story contains explicit and offensive language
Historic social media posts by Ashley Cain, a TV personality, have emerged showing him apparently using explicit sexist and misogynistic language directed at women online, according to a newspaper investigation.
Comments posted on the former footballer’s account, who currently presents the BBC Three documentary series Ashley Cain: Into the Danger Zone, frequently included abusive terms and sexualised language aimed at women on the platform X.
In tweets first reported by and reviewed by , Cain appeared to refer to women using derogatory terms such as "slags" and "bitches" among other offensive language.
has reached out to Cain—whose X account has since been removed—for comment. The BBC stated:
"We are very clear we expect the highest standards of behaviour from everyone who works with or for the BBC."
A corporation spokesperson added:
"When allegations are brought to our attention we take them seriously.
We will consider this information carefully and do not intend to comment further at this stage."
understands that the BBC as a whole was previously unaware of these social media remarks. The corporation has now requested that the independent production companies it collaborates with, which engaged Cain, conduct a thorough review of the social media checks performed at the time.
Details of Offensive Language and Context
Cain reportedly used terms such as "sluts" and "psychos" and made jokes about hitting women in various posts.
In 2014, responding to a now-deleted tweet he perceived as homophobic, Cain tweeted that one female user should:
"go and choke on a [expletive] you slut"
Additional offensive comments appeared to have been made while Cain was watching the ITV reality show Love Island, specifically targeting some of the female contestants.
Contrasting Statements and Past Remarks
In other contexts, Cain has expressed more positive views about women. He has praised certain women as good role models and acknowledged their talent or advocacy on various issues. He has also hosted high-profile women on his podcast.
Previously, Cain stated:
"I believe in respect and respect is mutual. If you are a lady, I respect you."
However, he also added:
"But if you don't respect yourself, how can you expect me to respect you?"
When challenged during a panel discussion about how he would feel if a man treated his sister disrespectfully, Cain said he would:
"like to think" that his sister "was brought up in a good enough way not to do" what his sexual partners do.
Career Background and Current Work
Ashley Cain played for Championship side Coventry City FC before transitioning into reality television, starring in the series Ex on the Beach.
He later appeared on the MTV gameshow The Challenge, competing in extreme physical and mental challenges to avoid elimination.
His BBC documentary series follows him as he travels to some of the world's most dangerous locations, interviewing young men living on the fringes of society.
A second series was commissioned and filmed earlier this year but has not yet been scheduled for broadcast.
BBC executives have previously praised Cain—who had 2.1 million followers on Instagram—for his "exceptional" ability to connect with young men, describing him as "what BBC Three is about," according to .
Cain also reached the semi-final of the Celebrity MasterChef competition in 2025.
