Emily Maitlis has revealed that she received a text from Dominic Cummings after her Newsnight speech on his apparent breach of lockdown sparked controversy.
The BBC journalist said it was "surreal" hearing from the Prime Minister Boris Johnson's chief adviser following the monologue row.
Back in May, a day after Mr Cummings held a press conference outside Number 10 to defend his 260 mile trip from London to Durham during lockdown, Emily opened Newsnight by saying: "Dominic Cummings broke the rules. The country can see that, and it's shocked the government cannot."
While many viewers praised her for her comments, the BBC later ruled that the presenter's comments breached impartiality rules.
She was then absent from the following Newsnight with many claims she had been forced to take time off from the programme - which later clarified by saying she asked for the evening off the BBC Two programme.
Speaking to Tatler, Emily revealed: "[Dominic Cummings] sent me a text of support.
"It was peak surreal getting a message of support from him in the middle of all the crazy stuff."
Emily then discussed how she had more support from viewers after the controversy than she did following her interview with the Duke of York.
She explained: "I think that was the biggest I've had – more than [Prince] Andrew, more than anything.
"I was overwhelmed by it; I wasn't expecting such a flood of warmth."
Police later said that Mr Cummings may have committed 'a minor breach' of lockdown rules when he drove to Barnard Castle but that he would face no further action.
Number 10 also defended the advisors trip with a spokesperson saying at the time: "The police have made clear they are taking no action against Mr Cummings over his self-isolation and that going to Durham did not breach the regulations.
"The Prime Minister has said he believes Mr Cummings behaved reasonably and legally given all the circumstances and he regards this issue as closed".
