Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister, was removed mid-broadcast from Channel 4’s US election coverage following a tense on-air dispute. Johnson, who was on the panel to discuss the election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, caused disruption in the studio, ultimately leading to his abrupt exit.
Dispute Over Book Promotion
At the start of the show, Johnson held up his memoir, prompting host Krishnan Guru-Murthy to tell him to “put it away,” labelling him “so cheap.” Johnson defended his actions, stating, “There’s absolutely nothing you can do to stop me … I’m allowed to plug my book.”
Throughout his time on air, Johnson repeatedly referenced his book, even when answering questions on Ukraine and his potential political comeback. Co-anchor Emily Maitlis criticised him, saying, “We are not all going to read your book, so just tell us, do you want a political comeback … You can’t actually answer a single question.”
Tensions with Emily Maitlis and Stormy Daniels
Johnson’s time on the panel included frequent clashes with Maitlis, particularly when she questioned his links to Donald Trump. Johnson labelled her questioning as “sloppy” and “dangerous.”
Later, tensions escalated when Maitlis introduced adult film actress Stormy Daniels, who discussed the threats she had received after going public about her past with Trump. Observing Johnson’s body language, Maitlis asked, “Mr Johnson, you’re kind of shaking your head, but this is coming from a man you’ve described as a friend.” Johnson denied shaking his head, clarifying he felt sympathy for Daniels and condemning threats against her.
Daniels pressed Johnson further, asking if he would feel comfortable leaving the women in his life alone with Trump. Johnson sidestepped, emphasising the importance of diplomatic relationships between world leaders.
Johnson’s Exit
After the heated exchanges, Johnson failed to return after a break. Guru-Murthy later revealed on air that Johnson had been “sacked for banging on about his book,” concluding Johnson’s unexpected exit from the show.
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