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JaackMaate Dropped from Norwich Christmas Lights Switch-On

Monday, 2 November 2026 at 08:57

Norwich City Council withdraws podcaster JaackMaate's Christmas lights invitation following concerns about his previous online content, prompting disappointment and apologies.

Popular Norwich YouTuber and podcaster Jack Dean, better known as JaackMaate, has been dropped from the city's Christmas lights switch-on following a review of his previous online content.

The 33-year-old had been invited to switch on the festive lights outside City Hall on Thursday 19 November, alongside his Happy Hour podcast co-hosts Stevie White and Robbie Knox.

The invitation came after the trio revealed on their podcast that taking part in the annual event was a long-held dream.

Norwich's Lord Mayor, Councillor Karen Davis, subsequently surprised them with an invitation during a podcast recording.

However, Norwich City Council has now withdrawn JaackMaate's involvement, saying it failed to identify concerns about his previous published content before announcing him.

Dean claims the decision followed a complaint about videos he made in 2014, when he was a teenager.

He has acknowledged that some of his earlier material contained language and humour he now regrets, but says it does not reflect the person he is today.

Describing himself as heartbroken and disappointed, Dean said the opportunity had meant far more to him than simply switching on the lights.

The council has apologised and promised to change its procedures for selecting future guests.

The Christmas lights event will still take place on 19 November, with entertainment beginning at 5.30pm and the switch-on scheduled for 7pm.

Further details about revised arrangements are expected shortly.

 

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