The Syndicate's Joe Sugg branded 'an insult to the North' as BBC drama sparks casting row

THE Syndicate's Joe Sugg has been branded 'an insult to the North' as the BBC drama sparks a casting row.

The YouTube star has landed his first acting role in the Kay Mellor's new drama alongside former Coronation Street actresses Kym Marsh and Katie McGlynn.

Joe will play Yorkshire lad Sam, a kennel worker, who along with his colleagues, wins the lottery on a syndicate ticket.

However, Loose Women debated the fact Joe is originally from Wiltshire in the South of the country on yesterday's show and whether that should have been considered during casting or was it an 'insult to the North'.

Denise Welch, who hails from the North East and has appeared in many TV shows, said she didn't mind and insisted actors shouldn't be restricted to their own area and accent.

Fellow panelist Jane Moore agreed but added it would be an issue if a part couldn't then be portrayed accurately.

Joe himself discussed heading North for filming during an appearance on Sunday Brunch this week.

But he caused some ridicule when he said: "I went to Leeds and everyone had a Northern accent…"

One viewer scathingly remarked on Twitter: "Good to know there's only one Northern accent, saves any confusion."

Last month, Joe shared the first picture of his character on his social media, wearing an oversized distressed denim jacket and jeans while leaning on a guitar case and smiling at the camera.

He captioned the shot: "The countdown to series 4 of @bbcthesyndicate is on! This is a pic of me as my character Sam.

"Follow that account for all the info you need! I’m staying [zipped mouth emoji] as I don’t want to give away any spoilers but I’m really excited for you to watch this.

"In fact predict or write your own version of what you think my character gets up to in the comments."

The Syndicate airs tonight at 9pm on BBC One.

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