Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard receive mixed reviews on first This Morning show
They are the new permanent hosts
After months of experimenting with different presenters, ITV/STV Daytime show This Morning started its new chapter today (Monday 11th March), as brand new permanent hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard took the reins.
The pair opened the show with good luck messages from their friends, including Chris Kamara and Ant and Dec, before they were joined by guests Gyles Brandreth and Ashley James to discuss the day's biggest stories, as well as the Princess of Wales' statement about her controversial Mother's Day photo.
Speaking at the start of the show, Ben told viewers: “It is very special, we’re thrilled to be here… Thank you to everybody who has sent us lovely messages of support”
Cat added: “We are so excited to be here… This show has been a huge part of our lives for so long so to actually be standing here with you, it’s good.”
Throughout the show, Cat and Ben were joined by some star-studded guests to kick off their This Morning careers, including Sir Rod Steward and Jools Holland. The pair also joined Nathan Antony in the kitchen for some air fryer feasts, whilst Trinny Woodall shared a confidence masterclass.
Cat and Ben were met with some mixed reviews by viewers for their first show together. Some loved their relationship, with one saying: 'Great start @catdeeley @benshephardofficial ….LOVE'. (sic)
Another wrote: 'I think they are great, don't get the Cat dislike, but each to their own. Doing a great job so far 👌', with a third adding: 'Loving it already. They are fantastic together 👏👏👏 well done'. (sic)
A fourth commented: 'What an easy watch thank goodness. Best there’s been'. (sic)
However, it seems not everybody was a fan of the new presenters, with one writing: 'Half an hour in and I'm bored. Bring back dermot, Alison, josie and Craig 🤦♀️', with another adding: ' So far boring, bring back Josie'. (sic)
A third wrote: 'Had to turn off. They don't seem to want to be there. Talking over guests'. (sic)
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As the new permanent presenters, Cat and Ben will host the show every Monday-Thursday, with bosses confirming Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary will host Friday's episode.
This Morning airs every weekday at 10am on ITV1/STV1.
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