Tommy Robinson, the controversial far-right activist and former English Defence League leader, has been released from HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes following a successful High Court appeal to reduce his 18-month sentence.
The 42-year-old, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, walked out of prison on Tuesday morning sporting a radically different appearance, including a full beard, long hair, and a red MEGA cap (a UK-style parody of Trump’s MAGA slogan). Within hours, however, he had visited a barber, returning to his signature short-haired look.
Post-Release Rant and Social Media Videos
Moments after release, Robinson appeared mic’d-up for a video shoot outside the prison gates. In a 27-minute video posted on X (formerly Twitter), he ranted against his jail sentence, the media, and the police, claiming that his family had received “serious threats of harm” during his incarceration.
He also publicly thanked Elon Musk, praising the billionaire and X owner for his previous support and calls for Robinson’s release. Musk has historically championed Robinson’s right to free speech on his platform.
A follow-up post showing Robinson freshly trimmed was captioned “From hobo to hero. The man is back.”
Why He Was Jailed
Robinson was jailed for breaching a court injunction related to allegations he made against a Syrian refugee — allegations previously proven to be libellous. A High Court judge granted early release after receiving "satisfactory assurances" that Robinson would not repeat the claims.
Robinson was originally due for release on 26 July 2025.
Legal Troubles Continue
Robinson’s legal woes are not over. He is:
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Due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 5 June, charged with harassing two journalists
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Facing trial in October 2025 over allegations he refused to provide a phone PIN to Kent Police during a stop in Folkestone last July
Despite his release, Robinson remains a divisive figure in British politics and public discourse, drawing ongoing attention from supporters and critics alike.
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