Brief
BBC sign‑language interpreter resembles Prime Minister Andy Burnham
Matthew Banks, a lawyer‑interpreter, was spotted signing for Burnham, prompting online jokes about a ‘stunt double’.
By Felo News Desk · Published
BBC viewers were surprised to see sign‑language interpreter Matthew Banks signing for Prime Minister Andy Burnham during a recent interview with political editor Chris Mason, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Banks, who has short black hair, thick‑rimmed glasses and a similar suit, is a professional interpreter and lawyer who grew up with deaf parents, earned a law degree at Cambridge and an MA in British Sign Language, and has worked full‑time as an interpreter for two decades.
Online reactions ranged from praise for the BBC’s “impressive work” to jokes about Burnham needing a “back‑up plan” and comparisons to other leaders. One comment likened the resemblance to a body‑double scenario, while another quipped that Burnham would be “totally upfront” unlike other figures.
During a separate BBC segment weeks earlier, Banks accidentally knocked his glasses off, removed them with one motion and continued interpreting without interruption.
Key facts
- Matthew Banks, a professional interpreter and lawyer, signed for Prime Minister Andy Burnham on a BBC News programme. (dailymail.co.uk)
- Banks has a law degree from Cambridge, an MA in British Sign Language, and two decades of interpreting experience. (dailymail.co.uk)
- Viewers compared Banks to Burnham, calling him a ‘stunt double’ and posting jokes on social media. (dailymail.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] dailymail.co.uk — originally reported as “BBC viewers are stunned to see Andy Burnham's 'double' signing for PM”
