Adil Ray returns to ITV after ‘Sharia law’ storm as ex-This Morning star reignites backlash

After facing a wave of criticism, including from his own network, Mr Ray issued what he called a “clarification”, insisting he was not suggesting Sharia law should be introduced in the West but that “many of its values” align with “what Muslims try to live by”. He notably stopped short of an apology.

ITV insiders told newspapers that executives were “very cross” about the episode, summoning the presenter to discuss his conduct amid wider sensitivities over the broadcaster’s reputation.

| ITV

The controversy reignited as former This Morning star Emma Kenny delivered a scathing rebuke on social media.

Ms Kenny, who has previously accused ITV of “cancelling” her over her pandemic views, mocked the GMB host’s defence of Sharia principles, writing sarcastically: “Just some light stoning, a pinch of beheading and a little touch of female subjugation — what’s not to like?”

Her latest post comes after several public figures, including GB News presenters Patrick Christys and Emily Carver, condemned Mr Ray’s remarks live on air.

The People’s Channel’s Mr Christys told viewers last week: “Given the persecution of women, Christians and gay people in countries where Sharia is enforced, I think we might swerve it over here, thanks, Adil.”

| ITV

Ms Carver added: “Why would a Good Morning Britain presenter try to make Sharia law sound soft and fluffy? Look at where it’s actually practised and ask how it’s working out for women and minorities.”

The ITV presenter’s clarification over his Sharia law remarks came just hours before he faced a new wave of criticism for his handling of an interview with a 100-year-old war veteran on Good Morning Britain.

Mr Ray faced an avalanche of backlash and hundreds of Ofcom complaints after speaking with WWII veteran Alec Penstone during a Remembrance segment.

The veteran had criticised the state of modern Britain, saying: “The sacrifice wasn’t worth the result it is now.”

Mr Ray’s follow-up question, “What do you mean by that, though?” was widely perceived as “fishing for a racist comment” or attempting to “stir controversy”, prompting outrage online and accusations of “disgraceful” behaviour.

Some accused the ITV host of showing disrespect, with one writing on X: “Mr Ray, who is a tiresome supporter of wokism, seemed upset.”

Others echoed the sentiment: “I can’t tell you how much I was affected by this wonderful veteran’s words. It had me in tears, and the anger I felt towards Adil Ray still has me fuming.”

Another added: “For many people, Mr Ray’s treatment of a 100-year-old veteran was a disgrace to our nation.”

However, a minority of users defended the presenter, arguing that he was simply asking follow-up questions and that his words had been “misinterpreted”.

This morning, Mr Ray joined Charlotte Hawkins back on the GMB sofa, his first on-screen appearance since the controversy.

Ms Hawkins shared a photo of the pair on X, which quickly drew hundreds of comments criticising the decision to have him back on air.

“He’s an idiot, totally unprofessional!” one viewer wrote, while another penned: “Won’t be watching with your co-presenter there, sorry.”

Other social media users posted their outrage directly: “Oh my God, I cannot believe they have Adil Ray on GMB this morning. Do they really think we’ve forgotten everything in one week? Absolutely fuming!”

Another added: “Why doesn’t ITV understand that nobody wants Adil Ray presenting? Everything about him is awful.”

|

PA

“He’s a horrible man,” declared another, while a fourth viewer demanded he “should be sacked”.

The latest backlash follows a string of controversies involving Mr Ray, including previous accusations of “fat-shaming” a guest and “race-baiting” during heated debates on the show.

There have also been unverified rumours online of potential cuts to GMB’s presenter roster as ITV reviews costs, though Ray continues to appear on air.

Mr Ray, who also fronts BBC comedy Citizen Khan, has not commented further on the criticism.