GMB today: Adil Ray divides viewers as many vow to 'switch off'
Adil Ray's return to GMB today sparked criticism online
GMB today sparked backlash as Adil Ray returned to the ITV breakfast show alongside Ranvir Singh. He had not been seen on air in quite a while. On Thursday, he joined the programme to cover the day’s headlines.
Why GMB today got people talking
Last week, Adil used Instagram to tell followers he would appear on the show on Thursdays through July and August. He called the programme one of the most important shows on UK television. He also said he felt grateful for the chance to return.
He wrote: “Some news! Yes, I have not been on in a while, but I’m glad to be on a little over the coming weeks, on what remains one of the most important shows on UK television, during the most important of times. So many others have left the traditional outlets, so I am fortunate and grateful for the continued opportunity.
“And of course, I aim to reflect all of us, especially the Villa fans.”
He added: “Thank you for supporting me, everyone, and I hope you will join us @gmb next Thursday.”
The reaction Good Morning Britain could not avoid
Some viewers did not welcome his return. As GMB today unfolded, several people posted on X and said they switched off after seeing him on screen.
One viewer said: “Switched on, saw that Adil Ray was on, switched off.” Another wrote: “Sorry. Had to turn over today.”
A third posted: “@GMB just switched on, then off again. Can’t bear Adil Ray!!!!!” A fourth added: “They’ve dragged the odious Adil Ray back out of wherever he was hiding. #gmb.”
Some fans backed the presenter. Others made their frustration clear within minutes.
What sits behind the latest Adil Ray row?
This is not the first time Adil has faced criticism online. In November, he drew backlash after posting support for New York’s newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani.
In that post, he appeared to back Sharia law for the city. He later clarified his comments in a follow-up post.
On November 5, he wrote: “Some say Mamdani may implement Sharia Law. He might. The heart of Sharia law is social justice, welfare, fairness, charity and cohesion. Most Muslim countries operate a hybrid of Sharia and civil law, and are slowly reforming and abandoning unethical practices despite the West’s portrayal.”
Then, on November 7, he said: “To clarify, I am not actually suggesting Mamdani would implement Sharia law. But many of the issues he campaigned for are also some of the positive values of Sharia that Muslims try to live by. Something many of us would agree on.”
For now, GMB today has given Adil another wave of attention. Not all of it has been positive.
Either way, Adil appeared happy to be back and comfortable by Ranvir Singh’s side.
Representatives for ITV have been contacted for comment.
Read more: Where is Jeremy Vine as Isabel Webster steps in to host his Channel 5 flagship show
