TV personality and former footballer Ashley Cain is currently under scrutiny following the unearthing of historic social media posts that allegedly contain explicit sexist and misogynistic language directed at women. An investigation by a newspaper has brought these comments, reportedly made on Cain's X (formerly Twitter) account, to public attention. The account in question has since been removed from the platform.
The unearthed posts are said to frequently refer to women using abusive terms and sexualised language. Specific examples cited include the alleged use of terms such as "sluts" and "psychos", along with jokes about hitting women. One tweet from 2014, in response to what Cain perceived as a homophobic remark, reportedly told a female user to "go and choke on a [expletive] you slut". Other offensive comments appear to have been made in relation to female contestants on the ITV reality show 'Love Island'.
Ashley Cain is known for presenting the BBC Three documentary series 'Ashley Cain: Into the Danger Zone', which sees him travel to various global locations. A second series of the programme was filmed earlier this year, though a broadcast date has not yet been scheduled. The BBC has commented on the situation, stating, "We are very clear we expect the highest standards of behaviour from everyone who works with or for the BBC." The corporation added that it takes allegations seriously and will consider the information carefully.
BBC News understands that the corporation itself was not aware of these remarks prior to them being brought to light. As a result, the BBC has reportedly requested that the independent production companies it collaborates with, and who engaged Cain, undertake a full review of the social media background checks that were conducted at the time. Cain previously played for Championship side Coventry City FC before transitioning into reality television, appearing in shows such as 'Ex on the Beach' and 'The Challenge'.
In past panel discussions, Cain has publicly stated his belief in mutual respect, remarking, "If you are a lady, I respect you. But if you don't respect yourself, how can you expect me to respect you?" When questioned on how he would react if his sister were treated disrespectfully by a man, Cain reportedly said he would "like to think" his sister "was brought up in a good enough way not to do" what his sexual partners do. Cain also reached the semi-finals of 'Celebrity MasterChef' in 2025.