Nik Coppin in N-bomb storm

Another British comic has landed himself in hot water in Australia – this time for saying the word 'nigger' on radio.

Nik Coppin was accused of being racist by ABC presenter Peter Goers, even though the stand-up is half-black himself.

The run in with the state broadcaster comes after Bob Slayer lost his slot at the Adelaide Fringe for misbehaving in his venue, The Austal. And by coincidence, Coppin is one of the people who booked that venue.

Coppin appeared on Goers's show on ABC radio in Adelaide on Wednesday, discussing why, as an outside, he had chosen to support the Essendon Australian rules football team above others. He explained that he it was because the team – who play in black and red – were once nicknamed 'The Blood-Stained Niggers' but now have more aboriginal players and fans than any other AFL team.

However, Goers cut off Coppin, who is half English and half West Indian, mid-flow, telling him bluntly that he was racist.

In a blog today Coppin says Goers told him off air to 'Get the fuck out of my studio' and says he wasn't given the 'chance for explanation or to delve deeper into interesting subject matter'.

He said: 'The word “nigger” is very a powerful one given its history, but like anyone with half a brain I use it carefully and in context and certainly not to racially abuse.

'Ultimately, you can't push boundaries and do and say important things without upsetting some people. The important thing is to be right and say things correctly, honestly and make them relevant.

'Mr Goers has no sense of humour or understanding regarding contemporary comedy and/or common decency towards modern and Adelaide Fringe comedians.'

He added: 'It was very clear that Mr Goers wanted to exert some kind of power and authority over me and have me back down and curtail to his experience and apparent greatness as a “celebrity” here in Adelaide, almost gloating that he has told other comedians to fuck off in the past too.  Nice, Mr Goers, very nice.'

ABC Adelaide were unavailable for comment.

Published: 2 Mar 2012