Daytime television legend Penny Smith has made a triumphant return to the small screen, joining BBC's Morning Live for a special segment on Friday, May 29. The 67-year-old presenter, best known for her 17-year stint as the main newsreader on ITV's GMTV, delighted fans with her first major TV appearance in 15 years.
A Familiar Face Returns
Penny Smith was a staple of British morning television from April 1993 until June 2010, working alongside iconic hosts such as Lorraine Kelly and Eamonn Holmes. Her final day on GMTV was marked by a montage of her best moments and a surprise serenade from singer Curtis Stigers, who performed his hit 'You're All That Matters To Me'. Now, she has brought her expertise back to the screen on BBC One's Morning Live.
Investigating Airport Chaos
During her appearance, Penny presented a segment investigating the turmoil faced by travellers due to the European Union's new fingerprint scanning system. She reported live from Manchester Airport, speaking to passengers who endured delays and missed flights. In a hands-on demonstration, Penny tested various substances—water, moisturiser, and an alcohol wipe—on her fingers to see how they affected the scanner's readings, each producing different results.
Viewers React
Fans were quick to express their excitement on social media. One viewer wrote: 'Can we please see more of Penny Smith on Morning Live?' Another added: 'Great to see Penny Smith back on TV.' The segment was hosted by Gethin Jones and Michelle Ackerley.
A Storied Career
Penny began her journalism career in 1977 as a reporter and feature writer for the Peterborough Evening Telegraph. She later helped launch Sky News in February 1989 before joining GMTV four years later. After leaving GMTV in 2010, she hosted various radio shows, including the weekday breakfast show on BBC London, Talk Radio, and Magic Classical. She has also made guest appearances on programmes such as Have I Got News for You, Just the Two of Us, and Never Mind the Buzzcocks.
Last year, Penny reunited with former GMTV co-star Eamonn Holmes during a short stint on GB News. Holmes remarked: 'I’m delighted to be working with Penny again after all these years.'
Morning Live airs weekdays at 9:30 am on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer.
