Rylan Clark's BBC future 'confirmed' after anti-immigration comments

ITV presenter Rylan Clark was inundated with vicious backlash after issuing a furious rant about immigration while presenting This Morning. During Wednesday's (August 27) live show with co-host Josie Gibson, the duo sat down with The Apprentice's Tim Campbell and Camilla Tominey to discuss the latest headlines, when the 36-year-old voiced his views on the UK's immigration policies after noting that it was healthcare professionals from "other countries" that saved his mother Linda's life when she fell ill earlier this year.

"They're living a great life, they're paying into this tax system, they're helping this country thrive," he said as he went on to claim that there is "something wrong" with the way refugees are welcomed into the UK. Rylan complained: "I find it absolutely insane that all these people are risking their lives coming across the Channel. And when they get here, it does seem, and I think this is why a lot of Labour voters as well are saying there's something wrong, it feels like, 'Welcome, come on in'. That's the narrative we're being fed."

The presenter has worked on a number of BBC television and radio shows, including his own podcast on Radio 4 and previously Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two. He has since faced major criticism, with many even calling for his termination from ITV and comparing his comments to those of Gary Lineker, who was suspended and eventually stepped awayfrom the BBC in May, days after he apologised for amplifying online material with antisemitic connotations.

Among the criticism, one viewer stated: "Surely Rylan should go the same way as Gary Lineker, given he works for the BBC. One rule for one, one rule for all."

Another agreed: "Good point. If Gary Lineker isn't allowed to have opinions while working for the BBC then no one else should. Of course, the people who demanded Linekar be sacked are fine with Rylan as they agree with him."

"Funny how Rylan seems to be fine to express his opinion based on misinformation but people like Gary Lineker apparently have to be quiet," a third remarked.

A fourth highlighted: "The BBC fired Gary Lineker. It won't even consider firing Rylan," as another took to X and penned: "Personally, I don't want anyone sacked just pointing out the hypocrisy."

During his rant, Rylan went on to claim asylum seekers given free goodies, saying: "Here's the iPad. Here's the NHS in reception of your hotel. Here's three meals a day. Here's a games room in the hotel. Have a lovely time and welcome."

"There are people that have lived here all their lives that are struggling. They're homeless. Let's not even discuss our homeless. There are people living on the streets, veterans, all of this," he added.

However, Express.co.uk understands Rylan is not subject to the same editorial guidelines as other BBC stars, due to his status as a freelance music presenter. Stars on flagship, news, current affairs and topical programmes are expected to remain duly impartial in line with the broadcaster's policies.

Just hours later, the presenter took to social media to address the outrage and doubled down on his statement, as Rylan penned: "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. The list continues. Stop with this putting everyone in a box exercise and maybe have conversations instead of shouting on Twitter."