BBC’s Ore Oduba Almost Duped by AI-Powered Mel Robbins Scam
BBC star Ore Oduba has revealed a jaw-dropping brush with an AI-driven email scam impersonating American podcaster Mel Robbins. The 39-year-old TV presenter, who won Strictly Come Dancing in 2016, shared his shock in an emotional Instagram video on Sunday night (July 20), warning fans: “It really can happen to anyone.”
“They Knew Who I Was!”
Ore thought he was receiving a genuine invite to appear on Mel Robbins’ podcast, which boasts over 20 million listeners. The show’s upcoming 2024 release, The Let Them Theory, had deeply touched him — so the email hit him right in the feels.
“I could have cried – they knew who I was! I told Mel everything. I said at the end of the email: ‘Even for you to know who I am is everything,’” Ore revealed.
In fact, he broke down in tears on a train from Birmingham, convinced his “life was about to change.”
Once a Scam Tracker, Now a Victim
Ironically, Ore once hosted the BBC’s Claimed and Shamed, exposing fraudsters and scammers. Yet even a scam-busting pro can fall prey.
“I’ve watched enough Watchdog to last a lifetime – but I never thought I’d be the person that would be scammed,” he admitted.
Spotting the Red Flags & Getting Help
Ore’s suspicions grew when he noticed a spelling error in the supposedly official Gmail address. He quickly contacted Mel Robbins’ real PR team — who confirmed it was a scam.
“It was SO convincing, it’s scary. With the help and manipulation of AI… I nearly got myself into a whole heap of trouble,” he said.
Public Warning & Praise for Quick Rescue
On Instagram, Ore summed up his rollercoaster experience:
“I’m ashamed, I’m embarrassed and I’m human… Listen to your gut. Being scammed is no fun. But I’m still inspired and I still love Mel Robbins.”
He also hailed the rapid response from Robbins’ team, admitting it “could have ended far worse” without them.
Quick Fact: When Did Ore Oduba Win Strictly?
Ore Oduba took home the Glitterball Trophy in 2016, winning the 14th season alongside professional dancer Joanne Clifton. The finale drew over 13 million viewers, making it the most-watched Strictly final at the time.
