Inside the Growing Rift Between the Thomas Brothers as Reality TV Drama Threatens Their Once-United Front

When Adam Thomas announced he was quitting the brothers’ podcast, rumours of a family fallout erupted almost instantly. And although the “exit” was later revealed as a publicity stunt, those close to the trio say the performance wasn’t far from reality. Behind the scenes, tensions have been brewing for months — and the truth is far more complicated than the joke suggested.

At the centre of the strain is Ryan Thomas, who is said to be deeply frustrated with younger twins Adam and Scott after their recent appearances on high-profile reality shows sparked controversy and risked damaging the family’s carefully crafted “nice guy” brand.

Sources say Ryan, once openly resistant to reality TV before pivoting to it when acting roles slowed down, knows the dangers better than anyone: a single argument, a harsh edit, or an unexpected confrontation can reshape a public image overnight. Which is why, insiders say, he has always been protective of how the brothers appear on screen.

But that caution hasn’t stopped Scott and Adam from becoming embroiled in headline-making clashes.

Two Reality TV Explosions

Scott’s return to Love Island in January ended in chaos when he had to be pulled away from Luca Bish during a furious altercation. Ryan admitted from home that watching his younger brother embroiled in such drama was “horrible.”

Then came the incident Adam is said to be dreading when his episode airs. While filming I’m A Celebrity: All Stars in South Africa, Adam reportedly lost his temper during a Bushtucker Trial, clashing with former footballer Jimmy Bullard and erupting in a torrent of insults that shocked campmates. The scenes are due to air in 2026, and insiders warn the fallout could be significant.

A source said:
“It’s unfortunate both brothers found themselves in trouble on camera. This is the opposite of the reputation they’ve built — joyful, easy-going, always laughing. These shows have huge audiences, and seeing them like this could shift public perception.”

Professional Ups and Downs

Despite their massive social media popularity and their easy comedic chemistry online, the brothers have struggled to establish consistent success on television.

Earlier this year, Ryan and Adam’s ITV game show 99 To Beat was cancelled after one series. Adam, who previously lost his presenting role on Extra Camp, admitted he felt defeated by the string of disappointments.

Ryan, meanwhile, has experienced both career lows and highs. He famously faced one of Celebrity Big Brother’s biggest scandals in 2018 when Roxanne Pallett falsely accused him of punching her “like a boxer hits a bag.” The footage proved otherwise, the public rallied to him, and his career rebounded — leading to wins and appearances on Dancing on Ice, The Games, Celebrity MasterChef, and Celebrity Island, where he met his fiancée Lucy Mecklenburgh.

A Complicated Family Dynamic

Behind their on-screen success lies a complex family story. After their father, singer Doug James, left when the twins were five, teenage Ryan stepped in as a parental figure. Adam recalls him paying for acting lessons, keeping them out of trouble, and carrying the family at just 16.

This history, insiders say, makes Ryan’s disappointment over the recent drama cut deeper than fans may realise.

Money Troubles and Competitive Tensions

The brothers’ public profile has also been shadowed by financial setbacks.

• Ryan declared bankruptcy in 2013.

• Adam and Scott lost £205,000 when their food firm collapsed in 2024.

• Adam’s restaurant went into liquidation in 2023.

• Their joint company Oh My Glaze Restaurants Ltd was dissolved only weeks ago.

They have since launched Thomas Brothers Entertainment and now juggle nine businesses. Friends say the men are “fiercely competitive,” each striving to be the family’s standout success.

The rivalry was evident last week when Adam dramatically “quit” their At Home With the Thomas Bros podcast — a decision that turned out to be a stunt meant to promote a guest listener episode.

What Happens When Adam’s Jungle Clash Airs?

According to industry insiders, Ryan is bracing himself for the public reaction once Adam’s I’m A Celebrity confrontation is broadcast. How damaging it will be remains to be seen — but all three brothers know the stakes are high as they pursue their goal of landing a family reality series.

For now, Ryan can only hope his brothers stay out of trouble long enough to protect their collective future.