Why did Lorraine Kelly avoid a £1.2 million tax bill?

A judge ruled she was a 'theatrical artist playing a persona,' thus not an ITV employee subject to the full bill.

What was Lorraine Kelly's past tax tribunal case about?

HMRC argued she was an ITV employee, but a judge ruled she was hired as an entertainer presenting a persona.

How did viewers react to Lorraine Kelly discussing taxes?

Many viewers found the segment ironic, referencing her past tax ruling and joking about 'tax avoidance'.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Lorraine Kelly's Tax Persona: A Hilarious Irony

Lorraine Kelly's Tax Persona: A Hilarious Irony

19 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Viewers found Lorraine's tax segment ironic due to her past tax dispute.
A judge ruled Lorraine was a 'theatrical artist playing a persona'.
She avoided a £1.2 million tax bill by being deemed not an ITV employee.

Lorraine Kelly's Tax Persona: A Hilarious Irony

During a recent segment discussing upcoming tax increases, Lorraine Kelly inadvertently sparked amusement among viewers. The host's past conflict with HMRC in 2019 resurfaced in online commentary, as many found the discussion about taxes to be ironically timed given her previous legal battle.

In 2019, a judge determined that Lorraine was a 'theatrical artist' who presented a persona, and therefore not an employee of ITV. This unique ruling allowed her to escape a substantial £1.2 million tax bill. Despite the humorous reactions, Lorraine has previously stated her belief in paying her dues and her working-class upbringing.

She had expressed her desire to share her side of the story, emphasizing her belief in public services. The ruling, which suggested she was essentially playing the role of herself on television, has since become a source of public amusement that she can reportedly 'live with'.