BBC News presenter mistakes copy paper for iPad on air
Viewers watching BBC News on Wednesday morning noticed the presenter, Simon McCoy, walked onto the set carrying an unusual prop: a ream of photocopier paper.
McCoy read the introduction to a story about 'Drunk Tanks' with a sober disposition, standing firmly with a blue package of paper in his hands as though it was an essential element of the newscast.
Always grab your office supplies before going on-air. BBC news reader appears to be holding a ream of paper. pic.twitter.com/dy50GoEXMm
— Sarah Sears (@iamsas) September 18, 2013
The BBC later told the Press Association McCoy had accidentally picked up the stack of paper while reaching for his iPad, which was sitting next to it.
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"In the rush of live news, he didn't have an opportunity to swap the items, so simply went with it," the BBC said in a statement.
Since news presenters rarely get a break after blunders, it didn't take long for the world to notice the mishap.
Earlier today @simonmccoy picked up a packet of photocopied paper thinking that it was his iPad live on air. REALLY. pic.twitter.com/ZrTOezcs25
— Scott Bryan (@scottygb) September 18, 2013
On another occasion, McCoy was once caught live resting his head on the desk when he thought he was off air, according to the Press Association.