This Morning fans ‘switch off’ as they blast ITV for ‘scraping the barrel’ with ‘insulting’ presenter reshuffle, saying ‘can’t think of two worse hosts!’
In a surprising turn of events on May 26, 2025, fans of ITV’s “This Morning” expressed their discontent with the network’s latest presenter lineup, featuring the duo of Alison Hammond and Paddy McGuinness. Traditionally hosted by the beloved pair Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard, this unexpected change became a topic of heated discussion among viewers on social media. Many felt that the producers had “scraped the barrel” for hosts, with numerous comments claiming, “I can’t think of two worse hosts!” The wave of criticism highlighted a growing frustration among loyal fans who feel strongly about the show’s hosting choices.
Viewer Reactions and Backlash
As the episode aired, the reactions poured in across various platforms, with many expressing their disbelief at the pairing. Social media was flooded with harsh critiques and memes expressing dissatisfaction with Alison and Paddy’s hosting dynamic. Viewers reminisced about the chemistry and charm of past hosts, lamenting that the current lineup failed to measure up to the previous standards set by Cat and Ben.
- “This is embarrassing, ITV,” one viewer tweeted. “You’ve really scraped the bottom of the barrel with this one!”
- Another chimed in, stating, “I can’t even watch this segment without cringing!”
- Comments also varied from constructive criticism about the presenters’ styles to outright calls for a rethink of the current hosting lineup.
Despite the controversy, the segment featured a lively appearance from guest JoJo Siwa. The youthful star made headlines with a heartwarming discussion about her relationship with Chris Hughes, bringing some light to an otherwise gloomy viewer experience. JoJo’s recognition of Chris as a significant positive influence in her life added a refreshing touch amid the criticism directed toward the hosts.
Ongoing Presenter Changes at This Morning
This episode is not an isolated event. “This Morning” has been undergoing numerous presenter changes in recent months, with different combinations of hosts taking turns under the spotlight. Previous episodes have highlighted varying dynamics, with Dermot and Lisa Snowdon stepping in to cover for the established team at different times. Viewers have begun to question whether these frequent changes signify a deeper issue concerning host chemistry and audience engagement.
Alison Hammond’s long-standing presence on the show—dating back to her joining in 2002—brings a sense of nostalgia and familiarity for many viewers. However, her partnership with Paddy McGuinness has been met with skepticism, leaving some fans yearning for the traditional and well-liked pairing of Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard. The show’s audience has become increasingly vocal about their desire for hosts who can replicate the warmth and connection previously established, which they now feel has been lost.
The Future of This Morning and Viewer Expectations
The feedback from viewers raises questions about the future hosting lineup for “This Morning.” As ITV navigates its strategy for retaining its audience’s loyalty, it must consider the expectations and preferences of its fan base. There is a clear longing for authentic and relatable dynamics that resonate with the viewers who tune in every weekday at 10 a.m.
ITV risks alienating die-hard fans if they continue to experiment with host pairings that do not create the desired synergy. As such, it may be crucial for them to listen closely to their audience’s feedback during this critical period of transition. Engaging fans in conversations about the types of hosts they wish to see can foster a stronger sense of community around “This Morning.”
It remains to be seen whether the show’s producers will respond to the current wave of criticism or stick with their experiments for the foreseeable future. With such a loyal viewership, attentiveness to fan sentiments could ultimately help shape the direction “This Morning” takes in its hosting choices moving forward.
As the discussion surrounding the hosts continues to heat up, viewers are invited to share their thoughts and preferences on social media. It’s a pivotal time for “This Morning,” and fans have the power to influence the show’s direction. What do you think? Are Alison and Paddy the right hosts for the job, or would you prefer to see a different pairing? Join the conversation and let your voice be heard!