ITV presenter Kate Garraway has taken on a fresh role within the Good Morning Britain team, a move that comes in the wake of what insiders have labelled 'savage' budget cuts across the broadcaster's flagship daytime schedule.
ITV's Daytime 'Bloodbath' and Schedule Shake-Up
The significant restructuring, which sources within ITV described as a 'bloodbath' when news broke in May last year, has led to sweeping changes. The cuts, impacting ITV Studios, are reported to have resulted in the loss of more than 220 jobs from the approximately 440 staff working on these programmes.
The most dramatic alterations have been made to the show Lorraine. It has been reduced from a one-hour format to just 30 minutes and will now air for 30 weeks per year, a sharp decrease from its previous 52-week run. Similarly, Loose Women will maintain its regular format but will also be scaled back to broadcast for 30 weeks annually.
In contrast, Good Morning Britain has been extended by 30 minutes, now running from 6am until 9:30am. This Morning remains unchanged in its length and frequency.
Garraway's Expanded Role and Viewer Reaction
Amid this new landscape, veteran broadcaster Kate Garraway, 58, who is GMB's main news presenter, was seen taking on additional duties. On Wednesday, 5th January 2026, the Celebrity Traitors star also hosted the London news updates, showcasing her versatility as the team adapts to new routines.
One viewer noted the seamless transition on social media platform X, writing: "Edit showing Kate back at the main desk right after the London bulletin," after she presented the capital's news wearing a navy velour dress.
The response to the newly shortened Lorraine was mixed on its first day, with some audience members questioning the point of such a brief show once advert breaks and introductions were accounted for. The show's host, however, remained upbeat, stating simply: "It's all good," as she carried on for her loyal viewership.
Heated Debates Mark Extended GMB Launch
The lengthened Good Morning Britain launched with a fiery political exchange, setting the tone for its expanded runtime. Presenter Susanna Reid engaged in a blistering on-air row with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch.
The debate grew heated when Reid pressed Badenoch on specific policy alternatives, including the two-child benefit cap and employers' national insurance. After Badenoch responded with a vague comment about the number of questions, an outraged Reid interrupted, shouting: "Yes because the prime minister says we need to know what you would you do as an alternative!"
This robust start to the new schedule underscores ITV's intent for its flagship morning programme to deliver impactful content, even as it streamlines other parts of its daytime offering in response to significant financial pressures.
