Rylan Clark’s Shock Exit From ITV: The On-Air Row, the Explosive Remarks, and the Announcement That Stunned Viewers

Rylan Clark has ignited a media firestorm after announcing that his contract with ITV has been terminated, ending his role on This Morning following a week of escalating controversy. The TV presenter, known for his upbeat persona and emotional honesty, delivered a dramatic and unexpected sign-off live on air — a moment that left both fans and co-hosts stunned. His departure, he suggested, came after his outspoken comments on immigration sparked a fierce national debate and intense social-media backlash.

“MY CAREER IS OVER — AND I DON’T REGRET A SINGLE WORD!” he declared in a statement that instantly ricocheted across headlines and social platforms. Rylan said that despite the consequences, he stood firmly by what he described as “disgusting truths” he felt compelled to speak. “I have no regrets for speaking up, even if it cost me everything.”

For viewers who had tuned in expecting a routine end to the week’s coverage, his words marked a dramatic turning point. Rylan, 36, wrapped up the episode with a farewell that many initially thought was emotional but routine — until the truth emerged. “At last, I can finally breathe easy and speak out about those disgusting truths,” he said, thanking fans before leaving the screen. Moments later, reports confirmed that ITV had decided his contract would not continue following the uproar surrounding his recent comments.

A Week of Tension and a Live-TV Flashpoint

The storm began early in the week when Rylan clashed with viewers over his take on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s plans for mass deportations. During a live discussion segment, he questioned what he saw as inconsistencies in the UK’s immigration system, saying:

“How come if I turn up at Heathrow Airport as a British citizen and I’ve left my passport in Spain, I won’t be let in? But if I arrive on a boat from Calais, I get taken to a four-star hotel?”

The remark set off an immediate reaction online. Critics accused him of fuelling misconceptions about asylum seekers, while supporters argued he was raising concerns shared by many viewers. Rylan pushed back, insisting his comments were being misrepresented.

“This country is built on immigration — legal immigration,” he clarified on-air and later on X. “They pay tax, they help our country thrive. But illegal routes? That’s something we can’t ignore.”

He went on to highlight what he described as growing unfairness in the system: “You’ve got people who have lived here all their lives struggling, while others are handed hotels, phones, even iPads. Something major has to change.”

Whether meant as a personal reflection or a political statement, Rylan’s words ignited a national conversation — one that quickly reached boiling point.

The Backlash Grows — and ITV Takes Action

Social media intensified the pressure. Some viewers praised Rylan for voicing concerns they felt mainstream broadcasters usually avoid; others said his statements were inaccurate or unhelpful in a climate already charged with hostility toward refugees and asylum seekers. Commentators, activists, and politicians weighed in, demanding responses from ITV.

By midweek, speculation swirled that his position on This Morning was at risk. On Friday, the rumours solidified: behind the scenes, ITV had “mutually agreed” with Rylan that his contract would come to an end. While no detailed public statement was issued by the network, insiders described the decision as a result of the unprecedented reaction and the ongoing pressure surrounding the show.

Co-host Josie Gibson, who had been presenting alongside Rylan during Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard’s summer break, reacted live with a simple but telling: “What a week!” Few realised at the time that it was also Rylan’s last.

Fans Heartbroken, Colleagues Supportive — and Talk of a Reunion Elsewhere

The news devastated many fans of the outspoken presenter. Social media flooded with support, with one viewer writing, “Please keep Rylan and Josie on! They’re the best duo in years.” Another announced they would stop watching the show entirely without him.

Meanwhile, former This Morning host Ruth Langsford hinted that Rylan’s career may be far from over. Speaking to The Mirror, she said she’d love to work with him again: “He’s like my son… If ITV asked, I’d be there.” She even teased that another project could already be in development — fueling speculation that Rylan’s next move might come sooner than anyone expects.

What Comes Next for Rylan Clark?

For now, Rylan appears resolute. He has insisted that he is stepping away from daytime television “on his own terms,” louder and prouder than ever, unwilling to apologise for the views that triggered the backlash.

As This Morning continues on ITV1 and ITVX — now without one of its most charismatic and candid stars — questions linger. Was Rylan’s exit inevitable? Was it fair? And will his voice be heard even louder now that he’s no longer bound by daytime-TV decorum?

One thing is certain: this story isn’t over, and the nation will be watching to see where Rylan Clark goes next.