This Morning host Dermot O'Leary has broken his silence on the series of scandals that have plagued the iconic ITV daytime show over the past two years, while paying heartfelt tribute to the programme's dedicated backstage team.
In an exclusive interview, the seasoned presenter acknowledged the 'challenging period' the show has endured, but was quick to highlight the resilience and professionalism of the crew working behind the cameras.
Weathering the Storm
O'Leary's comments come after one of the most turbulent periods in This Morning's 35-year history, which saw the dramatic exit of both Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby amid various controversies.
'There's no denying it's been a tough couple of years for everyone involved,' O'Leary stated. 'But what's kept This Morning going through it all is the incredible team behind the scenes - the producers, researchers, camera operators, and floor managers who come in every day and deliver brilliant television.'
The Backbone of the Show
The presenter, who shares hosting duties with Alison Hammond, emphasized that the off-screen team deserved recognition for maintaining the show's quality during periods of intense media scrutiny and public criticism.
'These are the people who truly are the heartbeat of This Morning,' he continued. 'While presenters come and go, this dedicated crew has been the constant force ensuring the show goes on, day after day, regardless of the headlines.'
Looking to the Future
Despite the challenges, O'Leary expressed optimism about the programme's future, suggesting that the recent upheavals might ultimately strengthen the production.
'Sometimes adversity brings people closer together,' he reflected. 'The team has shown incredible solidarity, and I believe This Morning is emerging from this period stronger and more focused on what matters most - delivering great content for our viewers.'
The show continues to maintain its position as one of ITV's most successful daytime programmes, with viewing figures remaining consistently strong throughout the various controversies.
