This Morning sparks huge backlash as controversial co-host announced in ITV shake-up

This Morning fans are up in arms as Gemma Collins, former Towie star, is poised to take on presenting duties for the beloved ITV show.

During Tuesday's episode (June 25), regular hosts Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley let slip that Gemma will be stepping into the role on Friday. Typically, Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary have been the charming duo for Fridays on This Morning, but this week sees a change-up with Alison set to co-host alongside Gemma.

The revelation has sparked an outcry among viewers, leading them to express their displeasure on social media site X. One peeved fan tweeted: "Reminder to self Do Not Watch Friday's #ThisMorning Do not want my day ruining by Gemma Collins."

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Another viewer expressed: "Gemma collins on Friday? #ThisMorning thanks for the warning I'll be sure to avoid it." Meanwhile, a third commented: "Oh my Lord, Gemma Collins and Alison Hammond will be on the same prog. Give me strength."

And a fourth added their voice: "Are you f*****g kidding me @thismorning? Gemma Collins of all people on your silly little show this Friday?"

This update about Gemma's upcoming appearance follows the news that comedian Jason Manford turned down This Morning. It was recently revealed that Jason will be joining BBC's Morning Live after he made it clear he wouldn't fancy a presenting gig on This Morning.

The comedian recently expressed his excitement about co-hosting Morning Live, stating: "I'm delighted to have been asked to guest co-host Morning Live this week. I always love supporting a Manchester based show and every time I've been on as a guest, the team have always been a real pleasure to work with. I'm looking forward to bringing a little chaos to the sofa once we go live! ".

Jason, known for his appearances on shows like 8 out of 10 Cats and Starstruck, previously dismissed the idea of taking on the This Morning role following Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield's exit last year. Speaking to Metro, he said: "'I'm quite a night owl. It doesn't quite fit in with stand-up, which involves working in the evenings."

"Maybe I would have done it 20 years ago when I was a bit younger and could burn the candle at both ends. I definitely need a nice sleep, and not early starts."