Alison Hammond has faced significant backlash from viewers following her recent interview with Hollywood superstar Chris Hemsworth on ITV's This Morning. The segment, which aired on Friday just before Valentine's Day, was intended to promote Hemsworth's latest film Crime 101 but instead sparked a wave of negative reactions across social media platforms.
Viewers Brand Interview as 'Cringe Fest'
The 51-year-old television presenter, who rose to fame through Big Brother and has become known for her high-profile interviews with celebrities like Britney Spears and Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, conducted what was framed as a Valentine's Date with the 42-year-old Australian actor. However, many viewers found the interaction uncomfortable and poorly executed.
During the interview, Hammond asked Hemsworth why viewers should choose to watch Crime 101 on Valentine's Day Eve. The actor responded by describing the film's thrilling nature, suggesting it would make for an exciting night out where couples could hold onto each other during suspenseful moments. It was at this point that Hammond interjected with a comment that many found inappropriate, saying: "Oh, well, I'm quite enjoying this dark room with you, to be fair!"
Social Media Reaction
Viewers quickly took to social media platform X to express their dissatisfaction with the segment. One particularly critical viewer wrote: "Hammond interviews Cringe fest you seen one you seen them all me me me me bab babes howling!" Another commented: "Awful woman. Screaming in his face #ThisMorning," while a third added: "Imagine her laughing like that in your face #thismorning."
Further criticism focused on Hammond's interviewing style, with one viewer noting: "Alison just wants to shout. She phases out so fast," and another observing: "This morning the things they have to do to promote their movies." The consensus among many viewers was that Hammond dominated the conversation and failed to allow Hemsworth adequate space to speak about his film.
Valentine's Date Setup
The entire interview was structured as a Valentine's Date scenario, with Hemsworth referencing Hammond's previous "date night" skit with fellow Australian actor Hugh Jackman. The Thor star humorously noted: "You know, as an Australian man, I saw the interaction, or date, if you can call it, that you had with Hugh Jackman, and I was pretty disappointed you brought the flowers and the cake and the champagne and everything. That's not how Australian men roll. So this time I wanted to do it and show you how it's supposed to be done. Show him how it's supposed to be done!"
Hammond's Television Career
Alison Hammond has established herself as a prominent figure on British television since joining This Morning in 2021. In addition to her regular presenting duties on the magazine show, where she often hosts alongside Dermot O'Leary on Fridays, she has participated in numerous reality programs including I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! and Strictly Come Dancing. She also serves as a presenter on The Great British Bake Off, showcasing her versatility across different television formats.
Potential Celebrity Traitors Appearance
This controversy comes amid reports that Hammond is being considered for the next series of Celebrity Traitors. According to sources speaking to The Sun, "Alison is on the BBC's hit list for Celebrity Traitors and she's keen. The Beeb think she could be comedy gold, just like Alan Carr. Alison is naturally very funny and they think she could end up being hugely successful."
The source further explained: "The pot of talent wanting to take part is overflowing, so they have a lot to weigh up. The first series of The Celebrity Traitors was dynamite, so the second series needs to have the same weight. Contracts won't be signed until closer to the start of production, but the BBC are already keen to get Alison on board."
In November, Hammond participated in a This Morning skit inspired by The Traitors, potentially serving as a trial run for her possible involvement in the celebrity version of the popular reality show. Her potential casting would add to her already diverse television portfolio, though this recent interview controversy may influence public perception ahead of any official announcements.
