Why Was Ruby Wax Let Go by the BBC and What Prompted Her to Ban Mention of Louis Theroux?

Ruby Wax, a notable figure in British television, has made a strong impression in the current season of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!. For many viewers, this is their first introduction to her vibrant personality. However, Wax’s journey spans decades, marked by significant achievements in acting, comedy, and documentary making.

Ruby first gained popularity in 1985 as Shelley DuPont in Girls On Top. Her career blossomed with her comedy talk show, The Full Wax, which began airing on the BBC in 1991. In 1994, she launched the successful series Ruby Wax Meets, featuring high-profile interviews that included notable figures like Madonna and Sarah Ferguson. Her interview with Ferguson drew an audience of over 14 million and earned her a BAFTA nomination in 1997.

Departure from the BBC and Its Implications

Despite her success, Ruby Wax’s relationship with the BBC ended controversially in 2003 when her show was not recommissioned. While some perceived her exit as a firing, it was instead a decision by the network, which coincided with her turning 50. Ruby has been an outspoken critic of the BBC, alleging ageism as a factor in her departure.

Comments on Louis Theroux

In later interviews, Ruby suggested that her exit paved the way for Louis Theroux, who took over her Sunday night slot with his documentary series. During a 2023 appearance on Kate Garraway’s Life Stories, she highlighted this change, stating, “Of course, there was a man who took my job.” Despite initially blaming Theroux for her show’s cancellation, she acknowledged that another executive was responsible for the decision.

Past Conflicts and Resolutions

Initially, Ruby expressed negative sentiments towards Theroux, claiming he was her nemesis and even prohibiting her children from mentioning his name. However, this stance shifted in a 2020 podcast where she clarified that her animosity stemmed from personal issues, including jealousy and her father’s disapproval.

• Notable Interviews: Ruby interviewed influential figures like Donald Trump and OJ Simpson.
• Viewership: Her 1997 interview with Sarah Ferguson attracted over 14 million viewers.
• Awards: She received a BAFTA nomination and an OBE for her contributions to mental health.

Impact of Mental Health Advocacy

The period following her departure from the BBC was challenging for Ruby, marked by depression. This prompted her to pursue studies in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, eventually earning her an OBE for her mental health advocacy efforts in 2015. Reflecting on her journey, Ruby expressed gratitude for how her career unfolded, stating, “I wouldn’t have gone to Oxford or got an OBE, so I thank them all.”