Alison Hammond Replaced on ‘This Morning’ in Surprise Presenter Shake-Up: Dermot O’Leary Now Joined by Familiar ITV Face

 In a move that has stunned ITV viewers and set social media ablaze, This Morning, one of Britain’s most beloved daytime television shows, has undergone a surprise presenter shake-up.

Alison Hammond, who has been a staple of the show’s lineup, was notably absent from this morning’s broadcast. Instead, viewers were met with the familiar face of another ITV star seated next to co-host Dermot O’Leary — sparking a flurry of reactions from fans, media critics, and insiders alike.

The unexpected change in presenters has raised questions about Alison Hammond’s future on the show, potential behind-the-scenes tensions, and whether ITV is experimenting with a new hosting formula.

As one of the UK’s longest-running and most-watched daytime programmes, any alteration to the show’s hosting arrangement is bound to make waves — and today’s episode was no exception.

Dermot O’Leary Opens the Show With a New Co-Host

Viewers who tuned in at 10 a.m. expecting to see the usual dynamic duo of Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond were instead greeted by O’Leary alongside another ITV veteran:

Rochelle Humes. The pop star-turned-presenter, known for her regular stints on the programme and her hosting duties on Ninja Warrior UK and The Hit List, appeared calm and confident as she seamlessly stepped into Hammond’s role.

Opening the show with her trademark charm, Humes addressed the change with a smile but gave no concrete reason for Hammond’s absence.

Dermot O’Leary, equally tight-lipped, welcomed viewers as if nothing were amiss — but longtime fans quickly took to social media to voice their surprise.

Where Is Alison Hammond? ITV Keeps Mum

Alison Hammond’s absence from today’s This Morning has prompted widespread speculation. Known for her infectious laugh, warm on-screen presence, and chemistry with O’Leary, Hammond has become a fan favorite over the years. The duo’s Friday morning segments have become appointment viewing for many, delivering a mix of lighthearted humor, topical discussion, and celebrity interviews.

Yet ITV has offered no official statement on why Hammond was not present. No mention of illness, vacation, or other commitments was made during the live broadcast. This silence has only fueled speculation about whether this is a temporary switch, a one-off absence, or a sign of deeper changes behind the scenes.

Rochelle Humes: A Familiar Face Steps In

Rochelle Humes is no stranger to This Morning. Having guest-presented on numerous occasions over the past decade, her rapport with both the crew and viewers is well established.

The 35-year-old mother of three has built a reputable broadcasting career following her music career with The Saturdays and is often praised for her poised, articulate delivery and relatability.

Industry insiders have noted that ITV may be using this opportunity to test out different presenter pairings ahead of a possible larger reshuffling of the show’s core team.

With Rochelle already entrenched in the ITV family, her presence today is likely no coincidence.

Social Media Reacts: #WhereIsAlison Trends on X (Formerly Twitter)

Within minutes of the episode’s opening, the hashtag #WhereIsAlison began trending on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Fans flooded the platform with questions and theories. Some expressed concern for Hammond’s health or well-being, while others speculated about contract negotiations, production drama, or even a quiet departure from the show.

“I love Rochelle, but This Morning without Alison feels off. Hope she’s okay. #WhereIsAlison” — @LiamTVObsessed

“Dermot and Rochelle are great, but Alison brings a special energy that’s missing today. Come back soon, queen! #ThisMorning” — @SophieDaytimeFan

ITV has yet to issue a response to the social media frenzy, and Hammond herself has remained silent on her personal social media platforms — further deepening the mystery surrounding her sudden absence.

A History of Presenter Shake-Ups on ‘This Morning’

This isn’t the first time This Morning has undergone a hosting shake-up. The programme, which debuted in 1988, has featured a rotating cast of presenters over the decades.

From Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan to Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby, the show has consistently evolved its hosting format to adapt to audience preferences, internal controversies, and shifting cultural tides.

Recent years have been particularly turbulent. The departure of Phillip Schofield in 2023 amid a personal scandal, followed by Holly Willoughby’s emotional exit later that year, left the show in a state of transition.

ITV leaned into a mix of reliable veterans and rising stars to steady the ship — with Hammond and O’Leary emerging as one of the most popular pairings.

Today’s development suggests that ITV may be continuing its tradition of change, possibly testing new chemistry or preparing for a more significant restructuring.

Is a Permanent Change Coming?

Though ITV has made no official announcements, today’s episode has sparked debate within the media industry about whether this is a sign of a permanent presenter change. Television insiders point to ITV’s ongoing struggle to maintain ratings amid fierce competition from streaming platforms and evolving viewer habits.

A senior source close to the production, speaking anonymously, suggested that ITV is closely monitoring audience feedback and may be trialing different co-host combinations to see what resonates most.

“It’s not uncommon for producers to make spontaneous changes to the presenting lineup, especially on Fridays, which are slightly more relaxed,” the source explained. “But Alison is a core part of the show, and unless there’s something serious happening behind the scenes, I’d expect her back very soon.”

Still, without official confirmation, rumors continue to swirl. Some tabloids have even floated the idea of Hammond transitioning into a different role within ITV — such as hosting primetime game shows or heading up her own talk show, something she’s expressed interest in previously.

Alison Hammond: A National Treasure

It’s no exaggeration to say that Alison Hammond is a national treasure.

From her breakout appearance on Big Brother in 2002 to her years as a roving entertainment reporter and now co-hosting This Morning, Hammond has carved a unique niche in British television.

Her candid interviews, memorable celebrity moments, and larger-than-life personality have endeared her to millions.

In 2023, she received critical acclaim for co-hosting the BAFTA Awards alongside Richard E. Grant — a testament to her wide appeal and versatility as a presenter.

She’s also a proud ambassador for body positivity, mental health awareness, and diversity in media, using her platform to advocate for inclusivity.

Given her stature and popularity, any changes involving her role at ITV will undoubtedly draw attention — and possibly backlash — if not handled with transparency.

The ITV Strategy: Evolution or Instability?

ITV’s strategy in recent years appears to be one of evolution, experimentation, and adaptation.

Following controversies, staff turnover, and changing viewer expectations, the network has leaned heavily on familiar faces while gradually introducing new talent to its flagship shows.

This Morning remains a crown jewel in ITV’s daytime schedule, but it faces increasing pressure to remain fresh, relevant, and competitive. As such, casting decisions — particularly concerning a beloved figure like Alison Hammond — are not made lightly.

Media analysts believe that today’s swap may be a calculated move by ITV to gauge viewer response before committing to any long-term changes.

What Happens Next?

As of Monday afternoon, ITV has yet to release a formal comment regarding Alison Hammond’s absence or whether Rochelle Humes will continue co-hosting future episodes.

Fans and media outlets are eagerly awaiting an explanation — or at least a clue from Hammond herself via social media.

In the meantime, the network is reportedly monitoring audience feedback from today’s episode and preparing for another potential announcement by week’s end.

If this is a one-off, viewers can likely expect Hammond to return in her usual Friday slot. If not, this could mark the beginning of a new chapter for This Morning — one that reimagines its presenter lineup for a post-Schofield, post-Willoughby era.

Conclusion: A Moment of Uncertainty for ‘This Morning’ Fans

For now, the fate of Alison Hammond’s role on This Morning remains uncertain.

Today’s unexpected hosting change has stirred emotions, sparked speculation, and reminded audiences just how much presenters matter in the world of daytime television.

Whether this was a brief scheduling shift, an unannounced holiday, or the start of a more dramatic change at ITV, one thing is clear: fans are invested, and they want answers.

As the network navigates this latest wave of public scrutiny, all eyes will be on tomorrow’s broadcast — and on whether Alison Hammond will reclaim her seat beside Dermot O’Leary or pass the baton to a new co-host permanently.