Good Morning Britain presenter Adil Ray reportedly met with network executives following social media posts he made about New York’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani that sparked controversy.

The television host shared his views on X (formerly Twitter) on November 5, writing about Mamdani: “Some say Mamdani may implement Sharia Law. He might. The heart of Sharia law is social justice, welfare, fairness, charity and cohesion. Most Muslim countries operate a hybrid of Sharia and civil law, are slowly reforming and abandoning unethical practices despite the west’s portrayal.”

Two days later, on November 7, Ray posted a clarification: “To clarify, I am not actually suggesting Mamdani would implement Sharia law. But many of the issues he campaigned for are also some of the positive values of Sharia that Muslims try to live by. Something many of us would agree on.”

According to The Sun, the posts prompted discussions between Ray and Good Morning Britain management. Sources suggested the timing was particularly sensitive, as the comments came shortly after ITV announced it was in preliminary talks to sell its broadcasting division to Sky in a potential £1.6 billion deal.

An ITV spokesperson told the London Stock Exchange: “There can be no certainty as to the terms upon which any potential sale may be agreed or whether any transaction will take place. A further announcement will be made in due course if appropriate.”

The proposed sale would not include ITV Studios, the production company behind popular programs such as Love Island and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! Industry observers note that such a deal could lead to organizational changes across ITV’s entertainment channels, though it might also bring increased funding for flagship programming.