London, Feb 28 : U2 frontman Bono reportedly shocked Radio 1 listeners when he called Coldplay singer Chris Martin a "w****r" during a live programme on February
27.

Bono, real name Paul David Hewson, also called Martin "a cretin".

He said that Martin was "dysfunctional", as the band went on Live Lounge to chat between songs.

DJ Jo Whiley, 43, was shocked herself with the `Sunday Bloody Sunday' singer's outburst and asked him to apologize, in turn the 48-year-old Irish singer blamed his language on it being "early" in the day even though it was almost noon.

The outburst came out after Whiley reminded Bono that he had recently rated Martin, 31, alongside Paul McCartney.

"He's a w****r," the Sun quoted him as replying.

He was asked to apologize for swearing and he did so, but could not help himself from commenting further.

"Obviously he is a completely dysfunctional character and a cretin but he happens to be a genius melodist," he added with a giggle.

The BBC last night apologised "for any offence caused". (ANI)