Reporter Files Police Complaint After Gronk Comedian Licks Him On Live TV

A Canadian reporter has filed a police complaint after a comedian licked his neck during a live cross, violating one of the most obvious rules of human interaction: don’t put your tongue on strangers when they’re just trying to do their jobs.

CBC reporter Chris Glover was reporting live from a Toronto comedy club on Tuesday when stand-up comedian Boyd Banks entered the shot.

As Glover discussed opposition to a Canadian radio station’s expansion from solely Canadian content, Banks lurked behind the reporter.

Banks eventually stuck his tongue out, licked him, and kissed his neck.

“Things are getting a little awkward out here so I’m going to pass it back to you,” Glover said to anchor Dwight Drummond.

After being told by Drummond to leave the crowded bar, Glover said “I have nowhere to go.” 

This is so disturbing and I get more uncomfortable every time I watch this creepy guy assault @chrisgloverCBC on live television. Why do people think it’s OK to #harass & #assault reporters while they do their job?! It’s gotta stop! @chrisgloverCBC @CBCToronto #Toronto #reporter pic.twitter.com/rSeTStQI5L

— Jeffrey Vallis (@jeffrey_vallis) February 27, 2019

In turn, Glover says he is moving to file a police complaint against Banks.

When questioned by CBC on the incident, Banks apologised and said there was “no excuse” for his actions.

Banks added he may seek help for mental health issues.

The footage circulated widely on social media, with viewers stating the obvious fact that Boyd was way, way out of line.

The incident also opened a broader discussion about sexual assault, and the entitlement some may have that leads them to believe their actions are acceptable.

This is so disturbing and I get more uncomfortable every time I watch this creepy guy assault @chrisgloverCBC on live television. Why do people think it’s OK to #harass & #assault reporters while they do their job?! It’s gotta stop! @chrisgloverCBC @CBCToronto #Toronto #reporter pic.twitter.com/rSeTStQI5L

— Jeffrey Vallis (@jeffrey_vallis) February 27, 2019

I want to apologize to @chrisgloverCBC for the actions of Boyd Banks. The irony of a "comedian" being no better than a drunken heckler is not lost on us. I hope the @CBC audience won't hold the embarassing actions of one person against the Comedy Community as a whole.

— Brendan McKeigan (@BrendanMcKeigan) February 27, 2019

Boyd Banks does not represent the Canadian Comedy Community. He’s been a plague for years and this stunt is not surprising. It’s horrifying and gross. Sorry to CBC and @chrisgloverCBC . He should apologize and stay away from Comedy happenings. #CanadianComedians

— Rhiannon Archer (@RhiannonArcher) February 27, 2019

Boyd Banks sexually assaulted a man because he was on camera – live. The embodiment of every brosef, ever. Career-ending.

— Elle Peah, B.A., GDBA, M.A. YMCA, ICQ, …- – -… (@ouroborosage) February 27, 2019

Glover’s fellow CBC colleagues also stepped in to condemn the incident.

Harassment and assault happens to reporters out in the field daily. None of this is acceptable and the ones who do it should be outed as the harassers they are https://t.co/9FCOFkKoCk

— Adrian Cheung (@AdrianCheungCBC) February 27, 2019

Sometimes as reporters we do have security go out with us, like after a large sporting event or during a protest. I don't think anyone ever expected a live hit at a comedy club at 6pm highlighting a financial issue for comedians to carry a risk.

— Lorenda Reddekopp (@CBCLorenda) February 27, 2019