The unknown prankster had been impersonating John Whaite although, with not a single follower in comparison to the real deal’s tally of over 300,000, he probably wasn’t fooling many fans. In case someone fell into the social media fraudster’s trap, however, the Strictly Come Dancing star took the precaution of making a public announcement.
He attached a copy of a message from the fake account to a slide on his Instagram stories.
It read: “Happy new year dear, how are you?
“I noticed your comment on my main page and decided to message you here from my fan page in confidence, I hope you’ll keep it that way?”
The impersonator added: “I don’t [usually] do this but I suspect you’re a nice person and I detest third party so you must never speak to anyone about it otherwise you’ll lose my trust.”
READ MORE: Amanda Owen reacts after fan asks her to share update on husband
“A few people have alerted me to this fake account,” he wrote on his Stories.
“If they message you, please do block and report.”
The account now directs to a warning that the page is no longer available, suggesting it has been deleted, deactivated, or removed.
It might not be the first time John has uncovered impersonators trying to dupe his fans, as his profile has for a while stated that it is: “My ONLY account”.
Meanwhile, the real John Whaite happily shared details of his New Year break in Malton, North Yorkshire recently, while celebrating the festive season.
“We’ve had the loveliest little start to the year staying at Cherry Tree Lodge in Welburn near Malton,” he wrote, along with a photo of himself kissing his dog.
“The sausage rolls at @dogh.welburn alone are worth a pilgrimage.”
Bigskykg1, who lives nearby to where John was staying, gratefully replied: “My son was very pleased to serve you whilst visiting the Crown and Cushion, so much he needed to come and tell us at half 2 in the morning when he came in from work. Happy New Year.”
John also posted a dose of positivity for fans as the year began, writing: “Here’s to 2022 my friends.
“Whatever the future has in store for us, I hope we all navigate it with love in our hearts, with self-respect and with kindness.
“Don’t be hard on yourself, don’t panic and contemplate what huge change or resolution must come your way. Just take those baby steps – one foot in front of the other – and everything will fall into place. Just breathe.
“Peace, safety and love to you all x”
