February 17th 2024.
The news is out: Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley will be the new hosts for This Morning! Fans of the popular daytime show were thrilled to hear that Cat will be joining forces with Ben, but there are reports that he wasn't the first choice for the job.
It was confirmed on Friday that starting next month, the duo will take over as the official presenters from Monday to Thursday, while Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary will continue to host on Fridays. However, there are rumors that ITV had originally wanted Cat to co-host with her husband, Patrick Kielty, in a Richard and Judy-style partnership. Unfortunately, this plan hit a snag as Patrick is happy in his role as the host of Ireland's The Late Late Show, making it impossible for him to join This Morning.
According to sources, once Patrick was no longer an option, ITV turned to Ben and Cat, who were playfully nicknamed "BenCat" months ago. The official announcement was made through a promo video posted on This Morning's social media accounts. In the video, Ben walks down the production corridor and places a new photo of Cat on the wall. As he turns to the camera, the photo comes to life with Cat giving her signature wink.
For Ben, who is stepping down from his position as an anchor on Good Morning Britain, this new opportunity is an honor. He shared, "This really feels like a very special moment for Cat and I to be part of the next chapter of This Morning. It's an honor to be trusted with the reins, join Alison and Dermot, and work with the amazing team on and off screen."
Cat, who is excited to take on the role, described This Morning as a national institution, saying, "Whenever it's on, it's like having your friends over – funny, smart, silly, heartfelt, informative, and joyful – like all the greatest friendships." She also acknowledged the love that viewers have for the show and promised to do her best to take care of it.
The duo will be replacing Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, who left the show in 2023. This Morning Editor Martin Frizell is looking forward to the new chapter and said, "The team and I have relished the opportunity to try new things these past few months and remind viewers what a talented team we have here at This Morning. We can't wait to welcome Ben and Cat fully into the fold next month and witness the start of another exciting chapter in the show's 35-year journey."
Holly, 43, left the series in October after an alleged plot to kidnap and murder. She released a statement, saying, "It has been a difficult goodbye, but I had to make this decision for myself and my family." Meanwhile, Phillip, 61, presented his last show in May after more than 20 years at the helm. A week later, he announced he was leaving the broadcaster altogether after admitting to lying about an affair with a young colleague.
The Agency has reached out to Cat Deeley, Patrick Kielty, and ITV for comment. This Morning airs weekdays at 10 am on ITV1. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, get in touch with The Agency entertainment team – they'd love to hear from you.
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