ITV executives are said to be preparing to axe one in 10 cast members from both Coronation Street and Emmerdale as part of fresh cost-cutting measures
01:52, 27 Jul 2025Updated 01:53, 27 Jul 2025
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Mandatory Credit: Photo by ITV/REX/Shutterstock (13429047q)
Emmerdale Village, featuring the Woolpack pub
‘Emmerdale’ TV Show, Episodes 9482-9501 UK – Oct 2022
Emmerdale, is a British ITV long running soap opera, known as Emmerdale Farm until 1989, set in Emmerdale, a fictional village in the Yorkshire Dales. It was created by Kevin Laffan and was first broadcast on 16 October 1972. It was originally produced by ITV Yorkshire and is still filmed in their Leeds studios.
ITV chiefs are reportedly planning sweeping cast reductions across their two premier soaps, with proposals to cut one in ten performers as part of new budget-slashing initiatives.
Both Coronation Street and Emmerdale may also witness fewer scenes per episode as ITV seeks to trim an additional £15 million from its overall spending, according to The Sun.
The broadcaster’s earnings have allegedly plummeted by 44 per cent to £99 million during the first six months of the year, sparking a fresh drive to curb production expenses.
Insiders suggest bosses are now pressing soap creators to reduce their escalating costs, with cast sizes being a primary target for scrutiny.
Coronation Street presently features 84 regular cast members, whilst Emmerdale boasts 70, reports the Express.
ITV bosses are said to be preparing major cast cuts across their two flagship soaps(Image: Getty)
An insider revealed: “It’s brutal. We’ve known it was on the cards for a while, but they’re really cranking it up now and it’s across the soaps.
“They’re looking to save millions and Corrie and Emmerdale are the obvious places. They’re very expensive shows.
“Many who have been there for a long time are reliant on their income staying as it is.
“The amount of cast has spiralled out of control and focusing on dialogue, not action, could also save money.”
Industry sources have also hinted that the number of scenes per episode – currently averaging around 20 – might be reduced to lower filming expenses.
Fewer personalities could also feature in individual episodes to help maintain tighter budgets.
While some long-standing cast members are on full-time contracts with salaries, most are paid per episode, which means that reducing screen time or overall scenes could significantly cut costs.
These proposed changes come as ITV makes cuts across its daytime schedule. Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women have all reportedly been affected, with hundreds of staff being made redundant in recent months.
In response to reports of soap cast reductions, an ITV spokesperson stated: “This is complete speculation.”
He’s been keeping his Instagram followers updated along the way, as he vowed to be “the fittest I’ve ever been” before his 50th birthday.
Before turning 50 in December, Ben attempted cold water swimming, walking 5k and braving ice baths.
He’s now continued his celebrations with a family trip to Australia.
Sharing a peek into his travels with his sons, Ben wrote: “ So this is just a little bit exciting!!!!
Ben Shephard has delighted fans with an Instagram update(Image: ITV)
“As part of my 50th year celebrations continue (have I mentioned I’ve turned 50) a proper bucket list moment, as we’ve just landed in Australia with the family – to support the British and Irish Lions across their tests!!!!
“I’m doing a bit of work but mostly doing a lot of cheering, supporting and merch acquiring…Lions Suitcases anyone.
“Can’t wait for later – thoughts on the score??? Also in Brisbane for a few days any recommends will be gratefully received!”
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Fans and friends alike rushed to share their support, with Loose Women ’s Katie Piper writing: “That’s such a great thing to do as a family.”
“So exciting,” This Morning regular Ashley James said, while Helen Skelton wrote: “What an adventure,” and Gaby Roslin said: “Have an amazing adventure.”
Ben has been taking on a series of challenges over the last few months(Image: Instagram/ @benshephardofficial)
Carol Vorderman shared her own anecdote, commenting: “Omg Ben I was filming in Brizzie and across Queensland in 1989 (it was very different then) and bumped into the Lions in a bar in Cairns Took me days to recover but what a laugh First time I ever had shots of tequila … it wasn’t a “thing” 40 years ago Bloody hell… life’s never dull Have a great great time.”
“Have fun big man there is some@great place to eat out there enjoy,” Jamie Oliver added.
Ben proved his challenges to be as fit as he could be paid off with a shoot in May showing off his six-pack.
Ben has been keeping fans updated with his 50th birthday celebrations(Image: Instagram/Ben Shephard)
Recreating his Men’s Health cover from 13 years ago, the TV presenter revealed his toned body, saying: “To get stronger, physically and mentally, is definitely harder the older you get. In my forties, I was still on the attack. In my fifties, I’m on the defensive.
“It’s all about how I prolong things now – not going out and smashing it left, right and centre.
“Proving to yourself you have the discipline to do something, proving you can be accountable to yourself is incredibly seductive and infectious. The more you get of that, the more you want it.”
The star showed off his muscles after vowing to be at his fittest at 50(Image: Getty)
Ben went on to explain that he appreciates his body now more than his 2012 photoshoot, and would “love” to recreate it again when he turns 60.
He told Men’s Health : “I think I value the condition I’m in now more than in 2012. I’ve got more lean muscle, that’s for sure.
“There are parts of my body that are bigger. I think my body fat is a little bit higher than it was then. Back then it was probably single figures and I think I’m about 10.5% to 10.8% now – which is extraordinary when you think I’m 13 years older.”
During Tuesday’s instalment of Good Morning Britain, presenters Charlotte Hawkins and Richard Madeley shared the latest headlines with ITV viewers
Things took an emotional turn on Tuesday’s (July 15) instalment of Good Morning Britain.
During the programme, ITV viewers saw hosts Charlotte Hawkins and Richard Madley speak to a man called Tristan, who recently lost his wife to breast cancer.
Before her death, Dr Susan Michaelis campaigned for there to be research into lobular breast cancer, after living with the disease for 14 years.
While speaking to Tristan on the show, it seemed as though Charlotte was overcome with emotion as the interview wrapped up.
Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins apologised as she held back tears during an emotional interview(Image: ITV)
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Loose Women is among ITV’s daytime shows that are facing budget cuts in the coming months as insiders warn the show will be completely stripped back from its usual setup
Loose Women is facing major changes as ITV scramble to recoup costs
Loose Women is facing its biggest shake-up in decades, with dramatic changes that have left fans and cast members reeling as insiders fear the ITV favourite could be axed altogether within the next year.
The iconic lunchtime chat show, known for its bold debates and A-list guests, is expected to cut celebrity interviews completely from January as part of sweeping budget cuts across ITV Daytime. The move comes just months after bosses announced the show would only air for 30 weeks of the year rather than its usual 52, slashing production time nearly in half.
Now, with viewing figures predicted to tumble even further, sources claim Loose Women is “on borrowed time” as ITV pivots its focus to sister shows Lorraine and This Morning.
“It’s a real shame. In January, the programme will become a shell of its former self before it is inevitably cancelled altogether,” one TV insider told Mail Online.
No more celebrity guests
Over its 25 year history, Loose Women has welcomed some of the world’s biggest stars to the panel – from Naomi Campbell and Janet Jackson to Dame Joan Collins and even former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
But sources claim the show will no longer feature famous faces promoting their projects because there won’t be enough staff to manage guests behind the scenes.
Instead, those high-profile bookings will now reportedly be prioritised for Lorraine and This Morning, leaving Loose Women to rely solely on its panel discussions of the day’s news and lifestyle topics.
“Not having guests is a big blow for both the presenters and viewers at home,” an insider revealed.
“The celebrity interviews are often one of the highlights of the show and bring a unique energy you don’t get on other programmes. It feels like a strange decision to cut them altogether.”
Behind the scenes, the panel – including long-serving stars like Nadia Sawalha, Ruth Langsford and Coleen Nolan – are said to be “deeply upset” by the changes.
Studio audience scrapped
The cuts don’t stop there. Loose Women has already axed its live studio audience, a move that has left both the panel and crew heartbroken.
Nadia Sawalha admitted she was “totally devastated” at the loss of the audience and spoke out in support of her close friend and warm-up artist Lee Peart, who lost his job as a result.
“The audience is so important for the show,” Nadia said. “What a lot of people don’t realise is that we’re self-employed. Every contract is a new contract – I could be let go tomorrow or in five years. It’s brutal.”
She added: “Hundreds of people are going to be made redundant out of the blue. A lot of my friends and colleagues on this show and at ITV have been there for decades, and I can’t tell you how upsetting it was to see people walking around numb with shock and fear about what they were going to do.”
Reason behind changes
ITV bosses have blamed “insane inflation” and rising costs for the daytime cuts, which have also seen Lorraine halved to 30 minutes and reduced to term-time broadcasts.
In May, ITV confirmed that production of Good Morning Britain will shift to a dedicated team at ITV News, while Loose Women, Lorraine, and This Morning will merge behind-the-scenes teams to save costs.
But industry insiders warn that these measures will likely spell the end for Loose Women.
An ITV spokesperson said: “The Loose Women team is still working on the show and its content for next year.”
Cost-cutting measures at ITV have resulted in a huge change for its daytime scheduling as 220 jobs are at risk and hit shows and presenters are facing a major shakeup
23:49, 08 Jul 2025Updated 23:56, 08 Jul 2025
Richard Arnold’s future at ITV has been revealed
ITV is set to make a huge change to their daytime scheduling, with jobs being put at risk – however, one star is reportedly safe from the cuts. The big changes have left staff, as well as viewers, unsure of what the future holds for their favourites on the channel.
They have decided to overhaul Loose Women and Lorraine as part of new cost-saving measures. From 2026, Lorraine Kelly’s morning programme will be shortened to a 30-minute slot, airing from 9.30am to 10am instead of its current hour-long format. It will also only be broadcast for 30 weeks out of the year, meaning the stand-in hosts who currently replace Lorraine when she is on holiday will be out of a job. Loose Women is also facing significant changes, and will soon only be airing “on a seasonal basis for 30 weeks of the year” according to ITV bosses.
Richard Arnold has worked on Good Morning Britain since 2014
The risks to jobs has left some fans wondering if their favourites could be axed. Thankfully, for those who love a bit of showbiz gossip from Good Morning Britain’s guru Richard Arnold, they have nothing to worry about.
He has reportedly kept his job amid the sweeping changes at ITV as some 220 staff face redundancies. Richard has fronted the entertainment news on the ITV morning show since it launched in 2014.
According to reports, he has been told he is safe along with his team, who are known as “RAP” for Richard Arnold Producers. A source told The Sun: “Richard is one of ITV daytime’s best-loved faces never mind on GMB.
“Viewers enjoy his slots and he remains very much part of the furniture.” Richard’s Good Morning Britain co-stars Andi Peters and Jeff Brazier haven’t had as much luck, however.
The pair have been lucky enough to call flying to far-out luxury locations part of their job, yet it won’t be for much longer. They would often pop up in some far flung location, encouraging viewers to try their luck and be in with a chance of winning thousands of pounds on shows, including Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women.
Yet, ITV will, reportedly, no longer be shelling out for presenters such as Andi and Jeff to sun themselves on sun-kissed beaches while working for the broadcaster in its latest cost-cutting exercise.
This year alone, Andi has broadcast from the Maldives, Australia, Cape Town and Florida while Jeff has jetted off to Thailand, Sri Lanka and Malta.
Kevin Lygo, Managing Director of ITV’s Media and Entertainment Division, announced the changes in May, where he had said the changes were necessary to “generate savings”.
He said: “Daytime is a really important part of what we do, and these scheduling and production changes will enable us to continue to deliver a schedule providing viewers with the news, debate and discussion they love from the presenters they know and trust as well generating savings which will allow us to reinvest across the programme budget in other genres.
“These changes also allow us to consolidate our news operations and expand our national, international and regional news output and to build upon our proud history of trusted journalism at a time when our viewers need accurate, unbiased news coverage more than ever.”
“Some staff believe Loose Women and Lorraine in particular will enter a death spiral… it’s just so sad. Just a handful of people will be working on each of those two programmes which has huge ramifications for how they are going forward.”
The Mirror has contacted ITV and Richard’s representatives for comment.
Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid returned to the BBC on Sunday
Susanna Reid has left fans “confused” with her BBC return after 11 years.
The 54-year-old presenter’s career began as a news producer at BBC Radio Bristol, before she transitioned into a reporting role on BBC News 24.
Susanna later secured a presenting position on BBC Breakfast, where she worked alongside Bill Turnbull and Charlie Stayt. In 2010, she left the show to join Sunday Morning Live.
Following appearances on The Andrew Marr Show, Susanna moved to ITV to host Good Morning Britain, which replaced Daybreak.
Susanna currently co-hosts the programme with a rotating line-up of presenters, including Richard Madeley, Ed Balls, and Martin Lewis, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Susanna Reid presents Good Morning Britain(Image: ITV)
At the weekend, Susanna returned to the BBC after 11 years to participate in a panel discussion on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
Following her appearance, she took to Instagram to post a photo of herself on set, alongside panellists Daniel Kebede and James Harding.
“SUNDAY! Always fantastic to be on @bbclaurak back at the BBC, this morning with @danielkebede and James Harding,” the caption read.
Susanna went on to reassure her followers that she’d be back on Good Morning Britain on Monday (July 7), saying, “Back @gmb tomorrow!”
Fans were thrilled to see her return to the BBC Studios, with many expressing their shock in the comments section.
“A nice surprise in the morning!” one person wrote.
Susanna appeared on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg(Image: BBC)
Another added: “Nice to see you back on the BBC,” while a third said: “Yes I watched it just because you were back.”
A fourth fan echoed the sentiment, saying: “I was confused this morning thinking it was Monday already when I saw you. Then realised I had BBC One on and there was no Ed.”
The Sunday morning political show delved into voter perspectives a year on from Keir Starmer’s Labour triumph in the general election.
Susanna sparked a lively discussion among the audience when she suggested that the Prime Minister might benefit from a stint on I’m a Celebrity to enhance his public image, much like Nigel Farage did with his 2023 reality TV appearance.
A viewer, clearly exasperated by Susanna’s comments, vented on X (formerly Twitter): “According to Susanna Reid, Starmer should go to I’m a Celebrity. We are doomed.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am
Grange Hill star Lee MacDonald has issued a stark warning after his latest skin cancer scare.
08:53, 07 Jul 2025Updated 08:56, 07 Jul 2025
Actor Lee MacDonald has spoken candidly about his recent cancer scare, delivering a crucial message to viewers.
With soaring temperatures expected, health experts have emphasised the vital importance of sun protection – something Lee passionately advocates following his personal ordeal.
Richard pointed out that Lee has faced two separate scares, with the 57-year-old revealing his initial concern occurred a year ago.
He explained: “It was found to be non-cancerous. Then, O2 are now doing a campaign for skin cancer awareness.
“On the back of that, I booked an appointment just for the doctors, I’ve got a little rash. It turns out it’s a keratosis, which is a pre-cancerous spot. I’m going to have it burnt out.”
Lee is best known for playing Zammo on the BBC show(Image: ITV/BBC)
The ITV presenter enquired: “So, that means it could turn cancerous?” Lee acknowledged this was indeed a possibility, reports the Manchester Evening News.
He continued: “It was just on the back of going and getting checked out, I think we really need to concentrate on putting skincare on and looking at blemishes on your face and going to get them checked out.”
Susanna then stressed the significance of applying sun cream before asking Lee to discuss his father’s skin cancer diagnosis.
Grange Hill’s Zammo star Lee MacDonald shares symptom as he opens up on cancer scare(Image: ITV)
The actor revealed: “My dad was a driver, for years he would sit with his arm out of the window. My mum would go on about his arm, saying it’s getting burned all the time.
“Later in life, he had skin cancer cut out from that arm.”
Richard pointed out that this cancer is incredibly common for American lorry drivers, who often dangle their arm outside the window whilst on lengthy journeys.
Nevertheless, Lee revealed that his skin cancer risk stemmed not from sun exposure, but from his sunbed usage decades earlier.
The actor detailed the importance of using skincare even when it’s cloudy(Image: ITV)
He explained: “Before I went to nightclubs years ago, I would lay on the sunbeds for an hour a week. I’d do a Tuesday and Thursday from about 17 until I was around 26 (years old).
“That’s what the doctor said it is; it’s probably the sunbeds rather than the sun; I don’t go out in the sun much because of- being aware of the risks.”
As the chat drew to a close, Lee shared with the two ITV presenters that he always applies sunscreen during fishing trips with his son, regardless of cloud cover.
Good Morning Britain continues weekdays on ITV from 6am.
Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway left ITV viewers distracted on Friday
Good Morning Britain star Kate Garraway left fans distracted as they all said the same thing on Friday (July 4).
On today’s episode of the popular ITV programme, Kate and her co-host Rob Rinder delivered the latest news from across the UK and globally.
They provided updates from Liverpool following the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of the club’s striker, Diogo Jota, and his younger brother. They also discussed the Home Office’s new initiative aimed at safeguarding town centres from crime and anti-social behaviour.
Kate and Rob also chatted with Sophie Ellis-Bextor about her newest album, and previewed the Oasis comeback tour, which kicks off in Cardiff tonight, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Good Morning Britain viewers were left distracted on Friday (July 4)(Image: ITV)
However, several viewers found themselves distracted at the beginning of the show when they noticed that Kate was donning the same outfit that featured in a recent ITV fashion segment.
They introduced Stephanie to the catwalk, who had begun job hunting after being self-employed. She was also preparing for her stepdaughter’s wedding, and was hoping to find the perfect ensemble for the event.
Gok styled Stephanie in a matching blazer and trousers from Monsoon, adorned with a vibrant leafy print.
The £90 blazer and £80 trousers were complemented with a £49.99 Mango clutch bag, and £22 sandals from River Island.
Gok Wan hosted a fashion segment on Thursday’s This Morning(Image: ITV)
“It’s got to be about comfort, you’re going off to a wedding. You’re going to be doing everything from dancing, sitting, standing… A pyjama suit is very on trend at the moment,” Gok explained.
Kate’s outfit on GMB caught viewers’ attention this morning, sparking a flurry of social media posts as ITV fans noticed the connection.
One viewer pointed out on X (formerly Twitter): “Kate’s outfit is the one Gok dressed one of his makeover models in on This Morning yesterday!”
Another chimed in: “I’m sure Kate’s outfit was used on a makeover on #ThisMorning the other day?”
A third complimented: “That outfit really suits Kate. It’s the one from This Morning’s fashion segment yesterday.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am
Former This Morning presenter Richard Madeley made a surprise return to the ITV daytime show after 24 years
Almost 25 years since his departure, former This Morning icon Richard Madeley surprised viewers with an unexpected return to the ITV daytime staple.
The TV star, 69, originally co-hosted the show from its inception in 1988 with his wife Judy Finnigan before making their exit back in 2001.
Just before they left, the pair famously encountered Sarah Meyer. At the time she was the infant abandoned in a multi-storey car park by her mother, discovered just hours after she was born, cosily wrapped in a pink towel and white shawl.
Amidst national news coverage, Judy and Richard urgently appealed for help in finding her family, but their quest was met with frustration and dead ends.
Now aged 24, Sarah made a poignant comeback to This Morning on the Monday (June 30), sharing her determined journey to learn the mysteries of her birth story, reports Wales Online.
Now 24-year-old Sarah made an emotional return to This Morning(Image: ITV)
Appearing poised for a significant moment on ITV’s Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace, Sarah stands as the youngest individual to embark on the search for family.
This Morning host Ben Shephard warmly remarked: “It’s wonderful to have you back on our sofa after all these years after you first appeared as that tiny little baby.”
Delving into the archives, the broadcast featured a touching snapshot of Judy and Richard cradling an infant Sarah, prompting Ben to add, “Aww look at you in Judy’s arms. It’s just amazing as ever Richard looking over you.”
In an endearing twist, Ben disclosed: “We’ve actually got a little message for you Sarah. If you look over there, here is a little message for you.”
Richard Madeley made a surprise appearance on This Morning(Image: ITV)
Richard sent in a touching pre-recorded message to Sarah, which was aired on the show. The Good Morning Britain presenter began with: “Hi Sarah. Well what an end to an incredible story.”
He proceeded to say: “I believe it has been almost a quarter of a century since you were with us, just a little baby in our arms on the This Morning sofa and we were so genuinely passionate about trying to find your family for you.”
Richard then remarked: “After all these years it’s just brilliant news to hear that you have and you met your dad as well, which is a great end to an amazing story.”
He wrapped up with heartfelt felicitations: “Huge congratulations from Judy and me and what can I say except have a great rest of your life. Lots of love.”
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX
Michelle Collins has opened up about her upcoming break from playing Cindy Beale on EastEnders and even admitted that playing the character was ‘exhausting’
Daniel Bird Assistant Celebrity and Entertainment Editor
08:28, 05 Jun 2025
Michelle Collins has revealed that playing infamous Cindy Beale is “exhausting”. The actress left EastEnders fans gobsmacked when she returned from the dead in 2023, and since heading back to Walford, she’s left no stone unturned in her plan of destruction.
Since returning, Cindy has certainly made her mark – reuniting with her former husband, George Knight, and their children, Anna and Gina, after completely vanishing from their bar in Marbella, and even leaving her mother-in-law, Kathy Beale, speechless when she first appeared in her kitchen.
Cindy also found herself having an affair with George’s son, Junior, leaving the Knights’ and Beales’ in a state of disbelief when the bombshell was announced. Over Christmas, she was almost killed when Kathy hit her around the head with a shovel, leaving her for dead in the middle of the square.
Michelle Collins admits playing Cindy Beale is ‘exhausting’(Image: GMB)
Now, she’s opened up about playing the controversial character and admits she finds Cindy “exhausting.” Speaking to Ed Balls and Kate Garraway on Good Morning Britain, Michelle said: “I am loving it, Cindy has taken over The Prince Albert which is really fantastic, so we’re kind of seeing another side to Cindy, a lighter side – which I think, Cindy can be exhausting for people to watch and exhausting for me to play.
“Which is why it’s nice to go off and do something nice. Years ago, they didn’t let people go off and do many things – maybe the odd panto or something but we have a very new lovely producer and I was very quiet.” Speaking about taking a break to pursue another project, Michelle said: “When I broached the idea, he said ‘Maybe we can make it work’ and he has made it work, which is really exciting.
The actress is taking a break from her role on EastEnders(Image: GMB)
“You go off and I am going back, you go back and feel re-engergised, you bring something else to the table.” Michelle added: “You’re doing a continuing drama, continuing throughout the year, it’s good for the soul. It’s good to go and do something else.”
But now, the actress, 63, is heading towards taking a break from the BBC One soap opera and will be turning her hand to a live stage production at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Michelle will be taking part in a one-woman show, which she says is “exciting.”
Michelle will be performing in Motorhome Marilyn, a dark comedy following Denise, an aspiring actress, who had an obsessive relationship with the late Hollywood pin-up.
The show has been inspired by Michelle’s real-life encounter with a woman known in Hollywood as Motorhome Marilyn, who is often spotted on Hollywood Boulevard cosplaying as the movie icon.
But Michelle admits she “wasn’t obsessed” with Marilyn. Speaking about her break, Michelle told the Mirror at the British Soap Awards: “Well I’m going off in the summer. I’m doing my one woman show at the Edinburgh festival, called Motorhome Marilyn.
“I don’t think she’s anything like Cindy. It’s a play about a woman impersonator lookalike who lives in a trailer and dresses as Marilyn Monroe. But she’s 60, it’s kind of strange. It’s about failure, lost dreams, and feeling like life has passed you by. She’s an interesting character. I’m really excited to play it. EastEnders have let me have a month off so I’m very excited.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX. EastEnders airs at 7.30pm each weekday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
However, she insisted that she was not quite done yet when she spoke to Tom Kerridgeon the Proper Tasty podcast.
“I’ve been doing telly for over 40 years. It’s mad isn’t it? It’s absolutely crazy,” Lorraine remarked.
“I started in breakfast telly in 1984, and I’m still getting away with it. Extraordinarily.
Richard Madeley was facing GMB axe before crunch talks as another HUGE star ‘is set to leave ITV’ amid cuts bloodbath
“40 years in TV last year was incredible. I got a BAFTA. “Here’s a BAFTA for being alive.” I thought, “Hang on a minute, I’m not done yet”.’
However, the star did allude that she likes to do different projects away from her
She continued: “Not so much in the morning, but if I do a wee show on Channel 4, or The Last Leg, or something like that. You can be unleashed. And I quite like that.
“You do have to have a self-edit button, and I’m finding mine is not operating as much as it should.
ITV’s daytime TV schedule changes in full
Good Morning Britain will be extended by 30 minutes to run from 6am to 9.30am daily.
Lorraine will run from 9.30am-10am, on a seasonal basis for 30 weeks of the year.
During the weeks Lorraine is not on air, Good Morning Britain will run from 6am to 10am.
This Morning will remain in its 10am-12.30pm slot on weekdays throughout the year.
Loose Women will be in the 12.30-1.30pm slot, again on a seasonal basis for 30 weeks of the year.
The changes will take effect from January 2026.
Lorraine added: “So, when I’m sitting there and I look at something and I think, “Gosh, what an absolute k**b that person is,” or how silly they are, I say it and I don’t realise I’ve said it. So I have to watch.”
Good Morning Britain co-host Susanna Reid was forced to interrupt a conversation about OnlyFans
On Good Morning Britain, Susanna Reid had to step in and humorously remind her colleagues that they were live on air during a cheeky exchange.
The Monday show took an unexpected turn when the panel discussed the earnings potential on OnlyFans, leaving Ed Balls particularly astonished.
Kurts Adams Rozentals, a British canoeist, had earlier shared on the programme that he was raking in a six-figure income from OnlyFans, despite being barred from competition due to “allegations” concerning his social media activity.
While reflecting on the sportsman’s unconventional revenue stream, Ed quipped: “We are in the wrong jobs!”
GMB guest Andrew Pierce then teased: “Ed, are you putting yourself forward as a potential model on OnlyFans?”
Amused by the thought, the former Strictly contestant chuckled: “It’s amazing on the internet what you can make money from.”
Ed Balls was left red-faced
Ed even suggested there might be a “niche” for Andrew, prompting Kevin Maguire to chime in with: “There’ll be a fetish stream!”
Ed, highlighting that making money on OnlyFans isn’t against the law, continued: “Well, Andrew, when you find out how much money he’s making, honestly, you should think about it.”
GB News’ Andrew retorted: “I thought about it, Ed, the answer is no!”
Yet, he couldn’t resist making a playful offer to Ed, joking: “Are you suggesting we do it together? Are you blushing, Ed?”
With Ed turning a shade of red, Susanna quickly interjected as the conversation veered off course. “This is going in a whole different direction!” she exclaimed.
Andrew Pierce had a cheeky suggestion for Ed
“Blimey!” added Kevin, before Susanna firmly reminded them with a laugh: “We are still on air, guys!”
While Ed isn’t keen on making waves on OnlyFans, he certainly raised eyebrows with Susanna after disclosing a saucy bikini anecdote.
In 2023, he made a surprising revelation about participating in a charity swimsuit competition, boasting: “I’ve got to say, I looked really good.”
Susanna was taken aback by the unexpected viewing of Ed sporting a mankini on GMB.
“Has it been censored?” she quipped, as Ed jestingly responded: “Luckily, you’re not showing the bottom half!”
Ed stunned GMB viewers
Susanna then queried, amidst their banter, “Is that an AI mock-up?”
Upon revealing the photographs, Ed shared the family rule his children set regarding the mankini—no wearing without boxers because it is “too revealing.”
“I’d not shaved or anything,” he confided.
“To those claiming it’s too early… you’re absolutely correct,” Susanna retorted. “This’ll be the amusing surprise that just keeps on giving!”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV1.
Good Morning Britain viewers were left furious after a heated debate was broadcast on Thursday morning
Good Morning Britain viewers issued a complaint as an “excruciating” debate unfolded on the show on Thursday (May 29).
This morning’s broadcast saw presenters Ed Balls and Susanna Reid tackle the day’s top stories, both domestically and globally, on the popular ITV show.
At one point, they began debating the current doctors’ strike after health secretary Wes Streeting warned that resident doctors would “choke” the NHS by going back on strike.
In a BBC interview, the MP urged resident doctors to “work with the government” and warned strikes risked hampering the progress being made in the NHS.
Last week, it was announced that resident doctors, the new name for junior doctors, would be getting a 5.4% average pay rise this year – more than other doctors, nurses and teachers.
Ed Balls and Susanna Reid presented Good Morning Britain on Thursday (May 29)
But they have said it’s not enough to make up for below-inflation pay awards since 2008.
GMB hosts Ed and Susanna invited Dr Ross Nieuwoudt from the resident doctors’ committee and Reem Ibrahim from the Institute of Economic Affairs onto the programme to delve into the contentious issue, reports Bristol Live.
“I absolutely believe in markets, but the NHS is not a market, it’s a socialised healthcare system. That is the fundamental point. If doctors want to be paid more, then let’s look at a social healthcare system,” Reem said.
“Let’s look at countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark that have public and private partnerships where there is competition.”
She added: “What I would like to see is the National Health Service as a whole, the spending that we’re using at the moment, being used more efficiently.”
A heated debate took place over the doctors’ strike
Ross was quick to counter, asserting: “I think that’s a foolish thing to do. A canary in a coal mine is there to alert people of danger, and that’s what the strikes are doing.”
The debate soon escalated as Ed and Susanna joined the conversation, with tempers flaring on all sides.
Viewers tuning into the fiery exchange soon expressed their frustation on X (formerly Twitter), criticising the segment’s confrontational tone.
One viewer questioned: “Why are they shouting??” while another commented: “Why is Ed Balls getting angry here? So unprofessional.”
Another exasperated viewer remarked: “This is excruciating,” and one more asked: “Can you explain please why Ed Balls’s questioning and response to the young lady was more aggressive than to the BMA representative. Seems to forget he’s now supposed to be balanced as an interviewer and his political bias as a labour minister put on the back burner.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am
Good Morning Britain star Susanna Reid shared an update after a car ploughed into crowds celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade
Good Morning Britain star Susanna Reid delivered “horrific” breaking news on Tuesday (May 27).
At the top of the programme, Susanna reported that four children were among those injured at yesterday’s Liverpool FC parade.
A man, aged 53, has been taken into custody following an incident where a car struck several pedestrians in Liverpool city centre during the Premier League victory parade.
Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media depict the vehicle ploughing through a crowd, causing people to flee the scene.
The police have stated that the incident is not being treated as terror-related and appears to be an isolated event, reports Bristol Live.
“Our breaking news this morning is that we now know that four children were among the dozens injured yesterday as a people carrier was driven into crowds celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade,” Susanna began.
Susanna Reid announced breaking news minutes into Tuesday’s (May 27) show
“Firefighters had to lift up the vehicle to rescue a child, who was among four people trapped underneath it.”
Ed Balls chimed in: “The Prime Minister has paid tribute to the city’s unity, saying Liverpool stands together and the whole country stands with Liverpool.”
Chief correspondent Richard Gaisford was reporting live from Liverpool, while Nitya Rajan was stationed outside Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
Before airing a pre-recorded segment, Richard issued a cautionary note to viewers. Following this, Nitya provided details about the injuries sustained in the incident.
“One child out of the four that were injured has sustained serious injuries,” she confirmed.
Back in the studio, Susanna Reid and Ed Balls discussed the heart-wrenching impact of the incident on the community.
A car ploughed into a crowd at the Liverpool FC parade on Monday
“Devastating scenes there. Of course, everyone thought that they were celebrating something joyful,” Susanna said.
“This parade was miles long, and initially people would not have realised what happened in Water Street if they had already drifted off in other directions.
“Obviously, your heart goes out to everyone injured, those who saw what happened, people would have been really devastated witnessing that, but everyone else in the parade thinking it was one of the best days of their life, and all that’s come over that now is just awful.”
Ed added: “It’s so particularly upsetting for this to happen in Liverpool. They were denied a parade during the pandemic when they won the league. Liverpool has faced such terrible football hardship over the years.
“For this to happen again and on the day when they’re celebrating such a dramatically brilliant win in the Premier League is really unfair. It’s terrible.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am
ITV star Lorraine Kelly is willing to pull out all the stops to save her daytime show amid severe cuts at the broadcaster
21:19, 25 May 2025Updated 21:19, 25 May 2025
Lorraine Kelly, 65, is fighting to save the long-term future of her show(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
Lorraine Kelly, 65, is fighting to save the long-term future of her show. Insiders say the TV presenter – whose programme faces major cuts in an ITV cost drive – will have to “pull out all the stops” for it to survive.
Lorraine will now air only 30 weeks a year instead of all year, with episodes cut to 30 minutes from an hour. A source said: “Lorraine was not happy about what is happening and also had concern for the production team which will be cut back too.
“But the truth is she has to roll her sleeves up and work harder on her own show than she has in recent years, otherwise the long-term future does not look good. She has been an icon of ITV but serious cuts need to be made and her show has been cut to just 30 minutes, which after ad breaks will be a very short chunk of time.
“She needs to show bosses it is worth keeping on air. You can expect her to be pulling hard to get big name celebrities on her show instead of GMB or This Morning.”
Lorraine Kelly, 65, is fighting to save the long-term future of her show(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
Lorraine was told her show was being cut back in a tense private meeting with bosses – and will now need to work five days a week to have a chance of keeping it on air long term.
ITV staff working on daytime were told in a meeting on Tuesday that half of the 440 production staff will go. But boss Kevin Lygo arranged for Lorraine to be told separately in the days before. Lorraine has been a telly regular for 40 years, on GMTV and Good Morning Britain before her own show in 2010.
However, she has not been hosting Friday episodes, with Christine Lampard and Ranvir Singh filling in. Last week staff Lorraine returned after surgery to remove her ovaries, which she discussed on screen.
A source close to the show said: “February, March and April celebrated the highest viewing figures for three years. The show reaches 1.1 million every day and 2.7 million every week.”
The ITV cuts will also affect other daytime shows, with Loose Women rumoured to be losing up to 10 of its 26 panellists.
Good Morning Britain also faces cuts but one constant will be Susanna Reid. A source said: “She is someone ITV want to build the show around and is seen as an essential part of daytime. She is 100% safe from the cuts.”
Hundreds of staff are now in a consultation process at ITV. An ITV spokesman said: “At a time when our daytime teams are undergoing a period of change we will not comment on speculation around talent or staff contracts.
“Our intention is to keep our daytime shows as familiar to viewers as possible which includes seeing presenters they know and love.”
Staff at ITV are said to be growing angrier as the row over cuts on key shows such as Loose Women and Lorraine continues, with insiders fearing a drop in standards
23:28, 22 May 2025Updated 23:50, 22 May 2025
ITV staff fury grows over 220 job cuts and ‘death of daytime’ as CEO pockets £4million salary(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
ITV staff fury is growing as the row over sweeping cuts to Loose Women and Lorraine continues to rage. Recriminations are becoming increasingly bitter over the channel’s axing of 220 jobs, with insiders insisting viewers will notice a drop in standards.
Many are blaming chief executive Carolyn McCall for the “death of daytime” and have criticised her for pocketing a massive £4million salary, including bonus, last year. There is also widespread anger that the cost-savings, which will radically change ITV ’s daytime schedule from January, were not delivered by Ms McCall to staff gathered in London’s Television Centre, on Tuesday.
A Good Morning Britain source said: “She could have walked the 400 yards to the studio to explain to folk in person.” But a channel spokeswoman said ITV Studios MD Julian Bellamy personally wanted to deliver the news: “It was really important to him that he shared this news directly in the way he felt appropriate. This is also very much in line with best practice HR given the sensitivity of the situation.”
Loose Women will feel the effect of the changes(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
They said ITV boss Kevin Lygo made the decision to shake-up the schedules. It comes as the channel was rocked by a series of other developments including:
Claims that standards across Lorraine and Loose Women in particular will go into a “death spiral” leaving viewers short-changed.
Outrage over stars on shows such as This Morning keeping their well-paid jobs while hundreds are sacked.
Fears of strikes among heavily unionised GMB studio crew and technicians.
On screen, viewers will see huge changes to the daytime schedule. Lorraine is the worst hit. It will run for 30 weeks, not 50 weeks a year, and will be slashed from an hour to 30 minutes each day.
Loose Women will stay at the same running time but will also be cut to 30 weeks. This Morning will remain the same length and frequency. Meanwhile Good Morning Britain will be extended by 30 minutes, to run from 6am to 9.30am. For the 22 weeks of the year Lorraine is not airing, it will go on until 10am.
A source said: “It’s not a case of viewers seeing less of their shows… it’s impossible to see how the high standards will remain the same. Some staff believe Loose Women and Lorraine in particular will enter a death spiral… it’s just so sad. Just a handful of people will be working on each of those two programmes which has huge ramifications for how they are going forward.”
All the shows are now going to be made under one roof. An insider asked: “If that’s the case, will Loose Women really still have a live audience…will there be the capacity for that? Everyone doubts it, not least because of the manpower needed to oversee it. Also, there is a huge amount of background work which goes into securing guests… in the new climate how does that continue with barely any staff?”
ITV sources insist that they want “minimal change” for viewers. The source said: “It’s early days and we are currently consulting but we don’t want to alienate our viewers and it’s hoped there will be minimal change on screen. Daytime is hugely important to our viewers.”
The Loose Women panel, including Coleen Nolan, GK Barry and Frankie Bridge, are also expected to see shifts dwindle, especially those who live outside London and charge for travel and hotels. Glam squads are also expected to be axed with stars expected to use in-house make-up.
An insider said: “To be honest there is very little sympathy for stars having their glam squads cut among the rank and file staff, in fact there is a lot of anger that on the whole the channel’s biggest stars are all keeping their jobs – and their exorbitant salaries – while others suffer.”
They added: “It’s no secret that stars on This Morning such as Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley are on huge salaries. Many believe they should offer to take cuts, or at least when their contracts are next negotiated.”
On the whole, This Morning is unaffected by the sweeping cuts. It will remain in its 10am-12.30pm slot on weekdays although questions remain over whether standards will be maintained.
The current Good Morning Britain team was particularly hard hit – of the 133 staff who currently make the early-bird magazine show, hosted by Susanna Reid, Richard Madeley and Ed Balls, just 38 will make the move to ITN which will now produce the show.
One source on the show said: “Lots of the studio crew and technicians will be the hardest hit with ITN taking over their roles. A lot of them are unionised and there is a fear among ITV that industrial action could be an option.”
GMB will be re-homed within ITN’s Gray’s Inn Road headquarters in Central London. Staff working on all shows are expected to “carry on as normal” until the plans are formalised.
A source said: “It’s a mutinous atmosphere to say the least and far removed from the happy, cheery image that ITV Daytime usually evokes.” The Mirror revealed this week staff on Lorraine were particularly worried their main host could quit.
Contrary to reports she was happy to see her hours cut “to spend more time with her family”, insiders say she is devastated for the team on the show being decimated. “They are a tight bunch on Lorraine and the agony is palpable,” said one.
After ITV announced a major shakeup to it’s daytime television shows, it’s feared Loose Women’s cast could be cut by up to a third with the show being reduced across the year
00:00, 21 May 2025Updated 00:01, 21 May 2025
The Loose Women lineup could be cut(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
Major changes are coming to ITV, and it could spell bad news for a number of popular presenters. It was announced recently that the organisation is having a massive shake-up with how its daytime TV will feature, and it appears the Loose Women crew could feel the full force of the switches.
However, from January 2026, Good Morning Britain will be extended by 30 minutes to run from 6am to 9.30am daily. The change also sees Lorraine Kelly’s show cut in half.
It will now run from 9.30am until 10am, and only be on our screens for 30 weeks of the year – the same amount of weeks as Loose Women will now air.
Loose Women will only air for 30 weeks a year
It’s thought up to a third of the 26-strong pool of Loose Women presenters could now face losing their job. A source told The Sun: “Everyone is completely gutted and in shock.
“We can’t believe they would dismantle these brilliant shows. It’s the death of daytime TV.”
Another added: “There’s no way all the Loose Women will be needed now there’ll be far fewer episodes to fill.”
Despite the on-screen show being cut, Loose Women: The Podcast will continue and provide more work for the cast.
The overhaul was announced yesterday by Kevin Lygo, managing director of ITV’s media and entertainment division. He said: “Daytime is a really important part of what we do, and these scheduling and production changes will enable us to continue to deliver a schedule providing viewers with the news, debate and discussion they love from the presenters they know and trust as well generating savings which will allow us to reinvest across the programme budget in other genres.
“These changes also allow us to consolidate our news operations and expand our national, international and regional news output and to build upon our proud history of trusted journalism at a time when our viewers need accurate, unbiased news coverage more than ever.”
He added: “I recognise that our plans will have an impact on staff off screen in our Daytime production teams.
“We will work with ITV Studios and ITN as they manage these changes to produce the shows differently from next year, and support them through this transition.
“Daytime has been a core element of ITV’s schedule for over 40 years and these changes will set ITV up to continue to bring viewers award winning news, views and discussion as we enter our eighth decade.”
Good Morning Britain sparked reaction online from ITV viewers after showbiz editor Richard Arnold shared ‘special’ baby news live on air about Peppa Pig’s mother
09:07, 20 May 2025Updated 09:08, 20 May 2025
Good Morning Britain fans were left scratching their heads after Richard Arnold dropped some ‘special’ baby news on the show.
On Monday’s (May 20) episode of ITV’s popular morning programme, presenters Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid were joined by the showbiz guru, who hinted at having ‘special oinking news’ to share.
Richard announced: “I have some baby news for you, what a beautiful day it is today. Now, as you know, I’ve interviewed Hollywood stars, music icons, sporting legends but the nation has been gripped by my biggest ever exclusive chat with Mummy Pig, when she announced, if you remember, her pregnancy back in February.”
He added: “Over 60 million of you on TikTok have been following Mummy Pig and the rest of the pig family while they get ready to welcome their new addition. This was the interview where it all started.”
Richard Arnold shared the exciting baby announcement
Revealing the big news, he said: “Since then, Mummy, Daddy and Baby Pig painted Battersea Power Station pink as they revealed the gender of their baby. Peppa and George will be welcoming a little sister and now, it brings me great joy to announce that she’s here!”, reports Bristol Live.
Susanna quickly chimed in with her congratulations, saying: “Aww, congratulations.”
Richard gushed: “It’s a beautiful thing, like I said, Daddy Pig has just shared these pictures with me of Peppa’s brand new baby sister Evie named after Mummy Pig’s Aunt Evie, she was born at 5:34am this morning, thankfully, just in time to watch her first ever Good Morning Britain.
“She’s certainly receiving the royal treatment so far with the town crier announcing her birth and a special plaque, how very royal, all the birthing details unveiled. Beautiful pictures here too, as you can see of the happy family.”
He continued: “Understandably, Mummy Pig is resting but Daddy Pig has let me know he will be free to catch up next week for his first ever TV interview and another glimpse of the new baby. You can find out when Peppa meets the baby this autumn.”
GMB made an exclusive announcement about Mummy Pig live on air(Image: ITV)
Susanna queried: “Do you know the weight?” To which Richard responded: “I don’t know the weight, I thought it might be a little bit invasive to ask at this stage.”
Susanna retorted: “People always ask the weight.” Richard quipped: “I was nearly ten pounds, you can imagine, it was all head because I’ve always had a smurf like body.”
Wrapping up the segment, Richard announced: “Great news and we will catch up with Daddy Pig next week.”
Confused viewers at home took to social media to express their surprise at the announcement. One viewer tweeted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Animated pigs ? OMG! This programme gets worse Seek professional help @GMB #GMB.”
One perplexed viewer remarked: “What the f**k is going on? Feel like I’m on drugs #GMB.”
Another posted: “Am I having a fever dream? A whole segment about a cartoon pig? Is this what we’ve become? ! ! #Gmb.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV and ITVX
ITV’s Good Morning Britain has been on the air since 2014 and has boosted the profiles of the likes of Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan – but the long-running series could be getting a major overhaul
22:51, 18 May 2025Updated 22:51, 18 May 2025
A report has suggested there could be major changes coming to Good Morning Britain(Image: ITV)
There are fears of a “mutiny” at ITV over plans to revamp breakfast news show Good Morning Britain. The topical news show has been on the air since 2014 and features Susanna Reid, Richard Madeley and Kate Garraway as regular hosts.
However, things are tipped to change at the Television Centre in London, where the ITV show is filmed—and there will be a major “shake-up” over the way the show is filmed. It has been suggested that the overall aesthetic of the show could be changed to be more hard-hitting and in line with ITV’s news reports, which are produced by ITN.
It has been suggested that a new studio could be constructed to house the morning show, sparking alarm among staff that this could affect roles behind the scenes. Changes are said to be in consideration in the hope that the ITV show can overtake BBC Breakfast, which regularly pulls in over one million viewers each morning, compared to around 700,000 for GMB.
The suggestion of changes comes months after former ITV News boss Andrew Dagnell was appointed director of news and current affairs at ITV. While Unions reportedly expressed “concern” in a memo to staff.
Piers Morgan flounced off Good Morning Britain and then quit in 2021 after throwing a strop about Meghan Markle(Image: ITV)
The Daily Mail reported the rumours of changes with a source telling the outlet: “Obviously any talk of major change starts panic – lots of the staff were immediately worried about the security of their jobs.
“This is about streamlining ITV’s news output across the whole day, and having separate teams doubling up just doesn’t make sense. So it may well be that some correspondents end up appearing across the whole day’s schedule, rather than being specifically attached to GMB or ITV News.
“There could be a new set and a new feel, and a more continuous feel to ITV’s news bulletins throughout the whole day as a result. But people are very much likely to lose their jobs, so there is a lot of upset, anger and in some cases, mutiny.”
One of Good Morning Britain’s biggest stars was Piers Morgan who served as an anchor on the show from 2015 until 2021 and was known for his outspoken opinions. His inclusion on the show helped GMB reach some of its biggest ratings in it’s 11 years history.
However, he sensationally walked away from the show four years ago after hitting out at the Duke and Duchess of Sussex after they gave an interview with Oprah Winfrey. Piers sparked a backlash when he criticised Meghan Markle after she opened up about past mental health struggles during her interview.
Quitting the show, he later wrote on X: “On Monday, I said I didn’t believe Meghan Markle in her Oprah interview. I’ve had time to reflect on this opinion, and I still don’t. Freedom of speech is a hill I’m happy to die on.”
Piers has struggled to find steady work since leaving the ITV show, however, as he joined News UK’s TalkTV channel – only for the network to be wound down. He now broadcasts a show on YouTube.
Piers has enjoyed viral success, however – particularly with an interview with Scottish lawyer Fiona Harvey, who is suing Netflix as she claims she was defamed by their hit show Baby Reindeer.
