A firestorm erupted after a deeply offensive post appeared on journalist Mike Graham’s Facebook page, ultimately leading to his dismissal from TalkTV’s “Morning Glory.” The post, a jarring image of wartime Britain juxtaposed with a modern, diverse London, was accompanied by language that ignited immediate and widespread condemnation.
Graham swiftly claimed his account had been hacked, a desperate attempt to distance himself from the inflammatory rhetoric. He deleted the post and asserted his cybersecurity had been compromised, but NewsUK stated he “failed to fully cooperate with the investigation” into the incident.
The original post featured a photograph of Winston Churchill and Big Ben alongside a crowded Tube carriage filled with people from various backgrounds, including a woman wearing a hijab. The accompanying caption, laced with aggressive language, questioned the changing face of Britain and expressed a sentiment of exclusion.
The fallout was immediate. Jeremy Kyle stepped in to temporarily fill Graham’s slot while an internal review unfolded. Despite his claims of a hack, scrutiny intensified, and the incident cast a long shadow over his career.
Graham, however, framed his departure as a transition, describing it as a “truly enjoyable experience” and an opportunity to embark on a “next chapter.” He expressed profound gratitude to his loyal listeners, emphasizing the enduring connection he felt with them.
He announced his intention to continue broadcasting through a new YouTube channel, promising to remain a vocal advocate for accountability and a champion for those he believes are marginalized. He vowed to continue “holding politicians to account” and “highlighting injustices.”
This isn’t the first time Graham has stirred controversy. He’s been a consistent and outspoken critic of London Mayor Sadiq Khan, recently citing personal experiences of crime as evidence of the city’s decline. He expressed frustration with what he perceives as a disconnect between the mayor’s optimistic portrayal of London and the reality on the streets.
Prior to his dismissal, Graham had also shared a similar image on X (formerly Twitter), though with a less inflammatory caption, simply asking, “Britain today. Why are we here?” This raised questions about the consistency of his views and the intent behind his online presence.
Despite the upheaval, Graham has been actively engaging with his supporters, expressing his appreciation for the outpouring of messages he’s received. He even addressed the cancellation of an upcoming show at the Shepherd Bush Empire, offering a sincere apology and promising a rescheduled date next May.
Beyond his radio work, Graham also hosts the podcast “Plank of the Week,” a platform where he continues to share his perspectives and engage in commentary. His future endeavors will undoubtedly be closely watched, as he navigates the complexities of a rapidly evolving media landscape.
