Lorraine Kelly has broken her silence on the significant cuts at ITV that have reduced her eponymous show to just 30 minutes per day for 30 weeks of the year, axing 22 weeks of episodes entirely. The 66-year-old TV presenter, accustomed to being on air for an hour daily, 52 weeks a year, now faces a dramatically reduced schedule due to broadcaster budget cuts.
Lorraine's Emotional Response to the Cuts
In a new interview with Saga Magazine, Lorraine was asked how she felt about the cuts and admitted: “Really rubbish. A lot of my team got made redundant. It was really hard and harder for them. We were very close-knit, but it’s all about budget. All television shows are in the same boat, we’re not alone.”
She previously told the Mirror: “I don't see me going anywhere until people get fed up, you know? Until people say, 'I've had enough of that one.' It's really heartbreaking to split up the team. A lot of them have been with me for more than 20 years, and they're my friends. I've grown up with them. They were babies when they started with me, and now they've got babies of their own.”
No Plans for Early Retirement
Asked if she would consider early retirement, Lorraine insisted last year: “Absolutely not. I am going to be toddling off on my Zimmer frame, and even then, I'll be coming in.” This determination underscores her commitment to her show and audience despite the challenging changes.
Worst Guest Ever: Bruce Willis
In her Saga interview, Lorraine also named the worst guest she’s ever had – a Hollywood legend. She admitted: “We’ve had a few big stars who’ve been really a***y. Bruce Willis was one, but now I think, ‘Was it because he was having a bad day, or was it the start of his dementia?’” This reflection highlights her empathy and the complexities of celebrity interactions.
The cuts at ITV reflect broader industry trends, with many television shows facing similar budget constraints. Lorraine’s openness about the impact on her team and her own feelings provides a candid look behind the scenes of daytime television.
