The Project apologises after Jesus sex joke

The Project hosts Waleed Aly and Sarah Harris delivered a detailed on-air apology over a controversial segment last night.

The Project hosts have apologised for the joke. Pictures: Channel 10

The Project has apologised after a comedian’s joke about Jesus on Tuesday night’s show led to calls for the programme to be cancelled.

Queer comic Reuben Kaye was speaking about the hate he receives for his sexuality and for dressing up in drag - particularly from the Christian community - when he made the X-rated remark.

“I love Jesus, I love any man who can get nailed for three days straight and come back for more,” Kaye quipped.

Waleed Aly looked stunned by the joke, made on prime time television, while co-host Sarah Harris burst into laughter.

On Wednesday’s show, Aly apologised to viewers.

“During a live interview last night, our guest told a joke which we know was deeply and needlessly offensive to many of you.

Reuben Kay enjoyed his own work. Picture: Ten

“We want to acknowledge the particular offence and hurt that it caused our Muslim and especially our Christian viewers. Obviously, I understand how profound that offence was.”

Harris added: “Live TV is unpredictable. And when this happened in the last few moments of the show, it took us all by surprise, there wasn’t a lot of time to react in a considered way.”

Aly then said: “We weren’t expecting a comment like that to be made and we acknowledge the offence it caused. We are sorry.”

Some viewers were unhappy about the joke.

“Absolutely disgusting comment about Jesus. He just insulted millions of people of faith,” one wrote on Twitter.

The Project hosts Waleed Aly and Sarah Harris say sorry.

An upset parent wrote: “Having to explain the offensive joke to my eight-year-old before Survivor kicked in, thanks legends. Shame on you guys. Have some respect and offer a public apology.”

Another said: “Having to watch this FILTH during dinner time with a young family. You owe the public an apology & furthermore, this horrible program cancelled.”

Dan Foster wrote: “The three nails sick derogatory joke allowed to air on tour show tonight is you giving permission to mock and ridicule Christianity and my Lord and saviour Jesus.”

But others found Kaye’s joke amusing.

“More of this on The Project please. I p***ed myself,” said one.

Another wrote: “I can’t believe Reuben Kaye just said that on national, prime-time television. What an icon!”

Kaye is known for his edgy jokes and will not shy away from touchy subjects in his upcoming tour.

“I want to poke the bear,” he said.

“I’m so thickly spread around this country that I might as well be systemic racism.”