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This Morning: ITV responds to claims show has fired Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford

The pair’s ‘axing’ has left viewers extremely divided

Jacob Stolworthy
Sunday 15 November 2020 05:24 EST
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Eamonn Holmes responds to backlash over 5G coronavirus controversy

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ITV has responded to the reports This Morning has axed Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes.

The presenting duo, who are married, have hosted the show’s Friday episode since 2006.

They are reported to be "furious and upset" by the news after it was said they are victims of a shake-up that will see Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary join the series in their place.

It is said that Langsford and Holmes will be asked to present the show for six weeks in the summer when Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby go on their annual break.

Responding to The Independent’s request for comment, ITV said: “We have a stellar presenting line up on This Morning in Holly & Phillip and Eamonn & Ruth. Any additions to this line up will be announced in due course."

The reported move is thought to be an attempt from producers to expand the show’s diversity having had an all-white presenting lineup for decades.

Hammond’s appointment would come after a successful guest presenting slot earlier this summer.

Holmes came under fire earlier this year for “ill-judged” comments about a conspiracy theory that claims coronavirus is spread by 5G telephone masts. 

He was told off by Ofcom for the controversial remarks.

Reaction to the pair’s “axing” has left viewers extremely divided on social media.

The Independent has contacted Langsford and Holmes’s representatives for comment.

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