Key Highlights
- Dermot O’Leary shares emotional message for This Morning team in farewell post.
- The 52-year-old presenter expressed gratitude to the crew on social media as many prepare to leave ITV programme in 2026.
- A number of regular contributors, including Rochelle Humes and Ashley James, echoed his sentiments about the hard work and professionalism of the team.
- ITV announces a major overhaul for 2026, which includes job cuts and schedule alterations for several programmes.
The Departure: Dermot O’Leary’s Emotional Farewell
Dermot O’Leary has taken to social media to express his gratitude towards the team at This Morning, as many members prepare to leave the ITV programme in 2026. The presenter, who turns 52 this year, shared a heartfelt message and a photograph of the crew waving in the studio during festive decorations.
A Gratitude for Professionalism and Humor
In his post, O’Leary wrote: “A quick word about an incredible team. The last day for many at @thismorning. For some, it’s the end of an era, for others, the start of a new story.” He highlighted their selfless hard work and professionalism, noting how they go above and beyond to produce two hours plus of television every day with humor and grace.
Team Sentiments: Echoes of Gratitude
The response from the team was quick and heartfelt. Rochelle Humes, a frequent co-presenter, wrote: “Absolutely spot on Derm, the best team ever! Echoing everything.” Ashley James, another regular contributor, added her voice by saying: “Amazing words and I echo everything.
Thank you to the best team ever.”
Other contributors also expressed their sentiments, such as Kate Lawler who stated: “Big love to everyone at TM! The warmest and friendliest folk in tele, every single one x.” Dr Nighat Arif further emphasized their dedication by saying: “Absolutely- echo every word- such an amazing team and a HUGE honour to work with the legends. Sending love.”
ITV’s Major Overhaul for 2026
The emotional message from O’Leary comes amidst ITV’s major overhaul, announced earlier this year, which includes significant job cuts and schedule alterations across several programmes. Good Morning Britain will be extended by half an hour and produced by ITV News at ITN.
Impact on Popular Shows
Lorraine’s show has been reduced to a 30-minute slot, airing from 9:30am-10am for 30 weeks of the year. When Lorraine is off-air, Good Morning Britain will broadcast from 6am to 10am. Although Loose Women‘s schedule remains unchanged, it will air seasonally for 30 weeks of the year.
The changes also impact other familiar faces such as Andrew Pierce, Sally Biddulph, Richard Gaisford, and US correspondent Noel Phillips, who have departed from ITV shows. The situation has sparked discussions among fans and industry professionals about the future of daytime television on British screens.
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