Susanna Reid has stepped in to defend Rylan Clark as the popular TV personality faces mounting backlash from a wave of left-wing critics over his recent comments on illegal immigration — comments that have split opinion and sent shockwaves through viewers.
The drama unfolded after Rylan, 36, publicly questioned the government’s decision to house migrants who had crossed the Channel illegally in four-star hotels — branding the policy “insane.” His remarks have triggered outrage among what many describe as the “woke mob,” with some demanding his removal from television.
The situation escalated on Good Morning Britain when journalist Kevin Maguire accused Rylan — without presenting evidence — of “spreading terrible myths” about immigration. That’s when Reid, 53, stepped in, reminding viewers that Rylan had repeatedly expressed support for legal immigration and gratitude to migrant doctors and nurses, particularly those who had helped save his mother Linda’s life.
“Hang on,” Reid said sharply. “He pointed out that this country is built on immigration, and he was grateful to all of the migrants who have come to the NHS for helping support his mum.”
This fiery debate comes as Labour attempts to respond to public anger by unveiling an asylum “crackdown” that temporarily blocks refugees from bringing family members to the UK. However, the announcement was quickly overshadowed by the Home Secretary’s admission that not a single Channel migrant has yet been returned to France under the much-publicised “one in, one out” deal announced months ago.
Reid pushed back against Maguire during the live broadcast: “It’s the duty of the government, as they themselves acknowledge, to control borders. You can’t just welcome everybody if you don’t know who they are. And I think Rylan’s message resonated with many people — it wasn’t an anti-immigration message.”
Maguire doubled down, claiming — again without specifics — that Rylan was “regurgitating myths and lies.” Reid countered by highlighting the ongoing homelessness crisis and the lack of affordable housing across the UK.
Speaking passionately on the show, Rylan explained:
“This country is built on immigration — legal immigration. Many of the nurses and doctors that have saved my mum’s life have come here from other countries. They’re paying taxes, they’re helping this country thrive. But I find it insane that people are risking their lives crossing the Channel and are then given hotels, phones, even iPads — while we have veterans and families living on the streets.”
He continued, pointing to what he sees as a systemic failure:
“This isn’t about politics. Something major needs to be done. The money it’s costing us, the number of people in this country that we don’t know — who they are, what they’ve done, what they’re capable of — it’s alarming.”
Clips of the exchange went viral, with many viewers praising Rylan for voicing what they feel is “common sense.” One even called for Susanna Reid to be given a “knighthood” for stepping in to defend him.
Still, a vocal minority on social media continued to attack the presenter, prompting Rylan to post a statement clarifying his stance:
“You can be pro-immigration and against illegal routes. You can support trans people and have the utmost respect for women. You can be heterosexual and still support gay rights. Stop putting everyone in a box and start having conversations instead of shouting on Twitter.”
The controversy came to a head on Friday when Rylan revealed it would be his “last day” covering This Morning alongside Josie Gibson. The duo had been standing in for regular hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard during their summer break.
The political storm shows no sign of slowing. Labour’s crackdown has been slammed by the Conservatives, with Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp declaring:
“Under Labour, a small boat to the UK is a one-way ticket to one of Keir Starmer’s cushy hotels — paid for by hard-pressed taxpayers. Labour has lost control of our borders.”
The much-hyped “one in, one out” migrant deal with France — hailed as “ground-breaking” by the Prime Minister and President Emmanuel Macron back in July — has yet to see a single migrant returned, despite promises that the system would be operational within weeks.
Sources insist detentions have begun, but delays in processing are holding up transfers. Officials continue to assure the public that returns will begin “later this month,” but patience is wearing thin.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Rylan Clark’s candid comments have thrust him into the centre of a cultural and political firestorm — with Susanna Reid standing firmly in his corner.
