Nigel Farage

Nigel Farage: Media Controversies

Overview

Nigel Farage has used media platforms more effectively than almost any other modern British politician. From his early years as a UKIP spokesman to his current presence on GB News and social media, Farage has positioned himself as a populist broadcaster who challenges mainstream journalism. Supporters praise his direct style, while critics say he spreads disinformation, amplifies divisive narratives and undermines trust in established news institutions.

This page outlines the major media controversies involving Farage, with links to detailed fact checks and verified reporting.

Last updated: 10 December 2025

1. GB News and the Promotion of Conspiracy Narratives

As one of GB News’s most prominent hosts, Farage has been involved in several broadcasts criticised for amplifying misleading or false claims.

Climate lockdown conspiracy narrative

In August 2025, multiple GB News segments, including those amplified by Farage, promoted fears of so-called climate lockdowns.
There is no evidence that any UK government or local authority has proposed such policies. Experts and fact-checkers have repeatedly stated that the concept is a conspiracy theory with no basis in reality.

See: GB News revives “climate lockdown” conspiracy narrative (Verdict: False)

Asylum seeker crime claims

Farage has endorsed or platformed GB News commentary suggesting a link between asylum seekers and rising crime.
Official crime data does not support this narrative, and migration researchers have described such claims as misleading.

See: GB News segment links asylum seekers to rising crime (Verdict: False)

These controversies contributed to renewed scrutiny from Ofcom, which has issued several rulings against GB News for breaches related to misleading material and political impartiality.

2. Attacks on the BBC and Mainstream Media

Farage has long framed the BBC as biased and hostile, using this narrative to reinforce his positioning as an outsider.

Examples include:

  • Walking out of interviews while accusing BBC journalists of pursuing an agenda
  • Claiming the BBC is anti-British and undermines its own national audience
  • Using talk shows, including GB News, to rally supporters against what he describes as “mainstream media lies”

Critics argue that these attacks are part of a broader strategy to delegitimise independent journalism while elevating platforms that amplify his own message.

See: Farage claims the BBC is anti-British (Fact-check page)

3. Farage and Elon Musk

In January 2025, Farage’s public relationship with Elon Musk deteriorated after initially appearing cordial.

Key events:

  • Musk publicly praised Farage’s rise within Reform UK in late 2024
  • Within weeks, Musk attacked Reform UK’s economic plans as unrealistic and called for new leadership
  • Farage continued to describe Musk as an ideological ally despite the public criticism

The episode highlighted Farage’s tendency to present high-profile figures as supportive even after they have distanced themselves.

See: Musk turns on Farage over Reform UK direction (Verdict: Misleading)

4. Social Media Influence and Online Hostility

Farage’s presence on X, TikTok and Facebook has become a major driver of his political influence. Clips from his GB News programme reach millions of users, especially younger audiences.

However, the same online visibility has intensified hostility and polarisation:

TikTok death threat case

In October 2025, a man named Fayaz Khan was charged after posting a TikTok video that threatened to kill Nigel Farage.
The video referenced Farage’s comments on immigration and crime, illustrating how highly charged rhetoric can escalate into real-world hostility.

Farage condemned the threat but blamed political opponents for what he described as an atmosphere of hatred. Critics countered that Farage’s confrontational style contributes to the same environment of polarisation.

See: TikTok death threat against Farage

5. Disinformation Through Public Statements

Several of Farage’s statements amplified through GB News, social media and campaign events have been shown to be misleading or false.

Examples include:

Election interference claims without evidence

Farage has warned that “shadowy forces” or “the establishment” are preparing to interfere in British elections.
No evidence has been produced to support these claims.

See: Farage warns of election interference without evidence (Verdict: False)

Misleading claims about foreign offenders

Farage has repeatedly suggested that foreigners commit more sexual offences than British citizens.
Ministry of Justice data does not support this claim, and independent analysis has found it to be inaccurate.

See: Farage claims foreigners more likely than Britons to commit sexual offences (Verdict: False)

Conclusion

Nigel Farage’s media controversies illustrate how he uses broadcasting and social platforms to challenge traditional journalism, promote emotive narratives and position himself as a truth-teller outside the establishment. While this strategy has been central to his political success, it has also amplified misinformation, increased polarisation and strained trust in independent journalism.

For further analysis, see the Fact-Checking Hub and other entries in the Farage controversies index.

Disclaimer

Farage Exposed is an independent, non commercial public interest project. All information on this page is based on reputable reporting, expert analysis and public records. No allegation of unlawful conduct is made unless explicitly supported by evidence. Readers are encouraged to consult original sources and consider all information critically. This site is not affiliated with, and is not endorsed by, any individual or organisation named.