ITV This Morning's Cat Deeley leaves viewers concerned after dashing off set

Cat Deeley, the renowned presenter of This Morning, sparked concern among fans in Tuesday's episode when she had to abruptly exit the screen due to a coughing fit.

Deeley, who is 47 years old, had indicated to viewers earlier that she was dealing with a harsh cold. It soon became evident as she could not suppress her constant coughs during an interaction with medical professionals.

While discussing antidepressants with her co-host Ben Shephard and the doctors on set, Cat found herself in a bit of bother. To prevent any disruption to the segment, she tactfully exited the set.

Fortunately, Ben was on hand to take control of the situation, effortlessly maintaining the flow of the conversation while his co-host took a moment off-air to recuperate.

As she hastily withdrew from the limelight, Ben light-heartedly noted, "You're in safe hands Cat we have two doctors here," to maintain focus on their ongoing conversation, reports the Mirror.

Concluding his discussion with Dr. Zoe, Ben jovially highlighted the unusual circumstances hinting at the demands of solo hosting, stating amusedly, "You've seen off Cat Deeley, that's the power that you hold."

Cat returned to the set following a brief absence for water and a throat lozenge. Upon her return, Ben checked in on her, asking "Are you ok now?"

Cat, with a noticeably raspier voice, responded, "I think so, I've got a bit of a runny eye and I'm sucking on a Strepsil."

Despite comforting viewers about her condition, fans showed their concern for the presenter on X, formerly called Twitter. One viewer expressed: "Hope Cat's ok. I've had coughing fits like that and they're not fun #ThisMorning."

There are voices on social media questioning if Cat should have stayed at home with a cold, as one said: "Why did Cat go in with a cold spreading it around #ThisMorning."

Another viewer queried: "Surely Cat should have called in sick...? #thismorning."

A different person suggested an old-fashioned remedy for the sniffles: "Someone get Cat some buttercup syrup #ThisMorning."

Meanwhile, one fan had empathy for her plight, noting: "Cat's doing everything she can, not to cough #thismorning."

During Monday's programme, it was detailed that the ex-SMTV Live lady was grappling with a nasty cold. In a segment featuring a hugging therapist, who charges £70 for her cuddling skills, Ben declared that Cat couldn't participate due to being under the weather.

As the cuddle expert recommended they try out her hugging service live on air, Ben was eager to take the opportunity. He apprised viewers: "Cat has a bit of a cold so won't be able to take part," before indulging in an extended hug with the guest.