In a significant shift within British breakfast television, Good Morning Britain regular Kevin Maguire has officially joined his former co-host Andrew Pierce on GB News. This move marks a notable reunion for the duo, who were long-standing fixtures on ITV's flagship morning programme.
A Decade-Long Partnership Rekindled
The pairing of Maguire and Pierce became a beloved feature on Good Morning Britain, where they engaged in spirited debates over the day's top stories alongside presenters like Susanna Reid and Ed Balls. Their chemistry, built over nearly ten years, captivated audiences with a blend of sharp wit and respectful disagreement.
Schedule Changes Prompt Departure
Pierce's exit from Good Morning Britain was triggered by ITV's announcement of sweeping changes to its daytime schedule. These adjustments included extending Good Morning Britain until 9:30 am and reducing Lorraine Kelly's programme to just thirty minutes. In a social media post towards the end of last year, Pierce described it as the "end of an era," confirming he could not commit to the extra spot in the extended show from January.
He wrote: "End of an era. Last week on @gmb with @susannareid100 as cant do extra spot in extended show from January. But join me on my @GBNEWS show from 9.30am Monday to Thursday. Onwards, upwards."
Reunion on GB News
Now, Pierce has welcomed Maguire onto his GB News programme, sharing footage of their debate on X with the caption: "Thought you'd seen the last of @Kevin_Maguire and me bickering on breakfast TV? Think again. He'll be joining me on my GB News show every week..." This development has been warmly received by viewers who missed their dynamic interactions.
Audience and Colleague Reactions
The news has sparked enthusiastic responses from fans and colleagues alike. Sarah Vine, who has been paired with Maguire on Good Morning Britain following the changes, responded with "Brilliant." Viewers have also expressed their delight, with one praising: "I think you two actually compliment each other very well." Another remarked: "Good banter," adding: "And shows as a great example as how those with opposing view can debate each other respectfully."
Further comments included: "That's great news - looking forward to seeing you both," and "Great news! I'll be retuning!" highlighting the strong fanbase the duo commands.
Behind the Scenes Friendship
Despite their fiery on-air arguments, Pierce and Maguire have maintained a genuine friendship off-camera. During a chat on Good Morning Britain with Susanna Reid and Richard Madeley, Pierce joked about public interactions, saying people often ask if Maguire is "as bad in real life as he is on the show," to which he quipped, "Yes, he is actually." Susanna then probed whether they remain friends away from the cameras, to which Pierce hinted at his impending departure, stating, "Not for much longer, sadly."
Andrew Pierce's Media Career
Andrew Pierce, a former editor of The Daily Telegraph and The Times, and a columnist and consultant editor for The Daily Mail, joined GB News as a presenter in August 2022. He has celebrated the channel's resilience, noting last year: "Delighted with @beverleyturner to be part of @GBNEWS team which is now beating @SkyNews week in week out. And they said @gbnews wouldn't last."
Future of Good Morning Britain
With Maguire now appearing on GB News weekly, Good Morning Britain continues to air weekdays from 6 am on ITV1 and ITVX, featuring new pairings such as Maguire with Sarah Vine. This transition underscores the evolving landscape of British morning television, where familiar faces are finding new platforms to engage audiences.
The reunion of Kevin Maguire and Andrew Pierce on GB News not only revives a cherished on-screen partnership but also signals a shift in media dynamics, as personalities navigate schedule changes and channel loyalties in pursuit of captivating content.
