Channel 4 received more than 200 complaints from viewers about its treatment of Michael Jackson's death on its topical programmes. Both 8 Out Of 10 Cats and TNT Show received complaints over what viewers perceived as "extremely poor taste" references to the late pop star.

One viewer voiced disgust at its "very harsh and rude" gags, adding: "I'm horrified; do you have no respect for the dead?"

Alan Carr: Chatty Man also received 23 complaints last month on taste grounds.

However, the complaints clearly have not fazed the broadcaster: it has commissioned Leigh Francis to create a 60 minute Bo' Selecta! special called Cha'Mone: A Tribute to Michael Jackson. The spoof look at the pop star's life will feature Francis in character as Jackson, complete with rubber mask. It is due to be broadcast on E4 this summer.