Mike Graham Mike Graham
Mike Graham of Morning Glory and Plank of the Week is currently "on a break" from his morning show and podcast, following 'racist' social media post. Facebook/Mike Graham

KEY POINTS

  • TalkTV faces questions after Mike Graham social media controversy
  • Mike Graham claims his account was hacked: "A vile message was posted without my knowledge"
  • Jeremy Kyle temporarily steps in as fans rally for Graham's return
  • As of writing, both Graham and TalkTV remain silent on the journalist's absence

TalkTV presenter Archibald Michael Graham — better known as Mike Graham — has been absent from his flagship morning show Morning Glory following widespread backlash over a controversial social media post. Known for his combative on-air style and provocative commentary, Graham's sudden disappearance has sparked intense speculation, especially as TalkTV has yet to issue a formal statement. Sources close to the network told The Independent that Graham is 'taking a break' from presenting duties. No return date has been announced.

What Happened

The controversy began when a post appeared on Graham's verified Facebook account showing a photo of Sir Winston Churchill beside an image of a London Underground carriage, accompanied by racially charged language.

The caption read: 'Compare and contrast. Tell me we're not f***** by multicultural bollocks. Why are we surrounded by non-white people? Just f*** off...'

The post was deleted shortly after it appeared, but screenshots quickly spread across social media, prompting public outrage and demands for accountability from TalkTV.

Graham's Response: Claims of a Hack

Graham later took to social media to explain that his account had been compromised, writing: 'On Sunday night my social media was accessed and a vile message was posted on my page without my knowledge. It contained words that I would never write and an opinion I don't share. As soon as I found out I immediately deleted the post and have taken steps to ensure my cyber security is enhanced.'

He added that he had reported the incident and apologised to his followers.

As of this writing, Graham has not commented publicly on reports that he is taking a break from TalkTV.

Divided Reactions from Viewers

Known for his outspoken and often provocative commentary, Graham has long been a lightning rod for public opinion. His direct on-air style — marked by sharp exchanges with guests and unapologetic political takes — has earned him both loyal fans and vocal critics. That reputation has made the reaction to his 'break' especially polarising.

While supporters have flooded social media with messages of solidarity, insisting the hacking explanation is credible, others see his absence as the natural fallout from years of divisive broadcasting.

Others, however, voiced their scepticism about the hacking claim and urged TalkTV and authorities to conduct a full investigation before reinstating him.

Since Graham's absence, Jeremy Kyle has temporarily taken over his morning slot. It remains unclear whether Kyle's role is a short-term replacement or a longer-term change.

What's Next for TalkTV and Graham

While sources describe Graham's absence as a 'break', TalkTV –- producers and co-presenters of Graham's other programmes including Plank of the Week –– has not provided any official clarification on his absence.

The controversy underscores broader questions about presenter accountability and freedom of expression in broadcasting, particularly in an era where journalists' personal social media activity can rapidly influence professional consequences.

As for Graham — a veteran of TalkRadio and now TalkTV — the coming weeks may determine whether this is merely a brief hiatus or a turning point in a career built on confrontation and controversy.

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