During this morning’s episode of Good Morning Britain (January 8), host Susanna Reid had to abruptly end an interview as the discussion veered off course. Alongside co-host Ed Balls, Susanna welcomed Errol Musk, father of tech magnate Elon Musk, via a live video link from Cape Town.
The conversation initially focused on whether Errol had discussed with his son Elon the latter’s falling out with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. However, the dialogue quickly shifted as Errol began drawing comparisons between Tommy Robinson and Nelson Mandela and sharing his views on a Canadian referendum.
As the subject matter strayed, Susanna intervened, stating: “Right, Errol, thank you very much indeed but I feel that we’re drifting slightly from the core issues for our audience.”
She appeared uncomfortable, shuffling papers and casting a tense glance as Errol was taken off-screen. Turning to the viewers, she added: “I think we slightly drifted away from how democracy works and the legal system in this country as well.”
Viewers expressed confusion over the decision to feature Errol Musk on the show. Taking to social media platforms like Twitter, one viewer commented: “Ffs #GMB – why the hell are they interviewing Elon Musk’s father? ” Another questioned the choice to let him discuss sensitive topics, asking: “Why are they allowing him to wade into the child abuse scandal, giving him a platform to claim that Nelson Mandela was worse than Tommy Robinson? “.
One viewer was aghast, posting on social media: “Don’t think this was a good idea GMB, quick cut to the break.”
Another joined the outcry, addressing @YvetteCooperMP: “You had him comparing Tommy Robinson to Mandela but better because Mandela was a terrorist. Seriously what the hell were you thinking having him on! ! @YvetteCooperMP have a word with your husband will you,” while yet another comment read: “Stop giving idiots like Errol Musk airtime #GMB.”
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