ITV presenter Ranvir Singh has candidly discussed the challenging reality of working on what she describes as a 'splintered' Good Morning Britain team, following significant budget reductions across ITV's daytime programming. The 48-year-old broadcaster, a familiar face to viewers through her roles on Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, and the quiz show Riddiculous, addressed the profound impact of the cuts in a recent interview.
Emotional Toll on Long-Time Colleagues
Speaking to the Express, Singh emphasised that personal career achievements pale in comparison to the difficulties faced by her colleagues behind the scenes. More than 220 staff members have faced redundancy as part of ITV's drastic slimming down of its daytime output, which came into effect in January. This scheduling shake-up has affected a string of shows due to reduced financial resources.
"I have said a fond farewell to lots of people I've worked with for over ten years, who have got up at the crack of dawn and worked in all the different departments," Singh revealed. She noted that while many have stayed because Good Morning Britain continues to perform well with strong viewing figures, the changes have been substantial. "Nothing you do personally, obviously, that's great, but you still miss the people that you have loved working with for over a decade on breakfast television," she added.
A 'Special Kind of Camaraderie' at 4am
Despite the team feeling "slightly splintered," Singh reflected on the unique bonds formed during early morning shifts. "That family feel... whilst we might all be slightly splintered now, the memories never, ever fade, it's a special kind of camaraderie you feel at 4am I have to say, it's unusual," she explained. "Any shift worker will tell you, it's a very different kind of working relationship that you form with people at that time of the morning."
Singh remains in touch with many former colleagues, maintaining connections through chats and messages. This highlights the enduring personal relationships that have been disrupted by the corporate restructuring.
ITV Daytime Scheduling Overhaul
The budget cuts have led to a comprehensive reshuffle of ITV's daytime lineup:
- Good Morning Britain has been extended by 30 minutes each day.
- Lorraine now operates on a 30-week schedule, with episodes reduced to just half an hour from 9:30 to 10am.
- This Morning continues to air for two-and-a-half hours from 10am until 12:30pm.
- Loose Women retains its usual slot from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, but episode numbers have been cut to a 30-week 'seasonal' based schedule.
Ranvir's Current Role and Unusual On-Air Moments
Currently, Singh presents the Friday editions of Good Morning Britain alongside Kate Garraway. The duo recently experienced an unusual on-air moment when they interviewed a 'creepy' guest—a robotic dog named Spot. Garraway was reportedly terrified upon seeing the mechanical canine, which had previously wowed audiences on America's Got Talent.
Singh revealed that Spot is now being utilised at the Sellafield nuclear site in Cumbria, operating in areas deemed too dangerous and toxic for humans. This segment underscored the show's blend of serious journalism and lighter entertainment, even amidst the backdrop of internal challenges.
Good Morning Britain continues to air on ITV1 and ITVX weekdays from 6am, navigating a transformed broadcasting landscape while maintaining its place in the competitive morning TV market.
