Dr Hilary Jones Returns to Television on GB News Following ITV Departure
Dr Hilary Jones has made a notable return to television screens, appearing on the GB News programme Breakfast with Eamonn and Ellie on Tuesday, February 17. This marks his first regular television role since being axed from ITV's daytime shows Good Morning Britain and Lorraine in October, as part of the broadcaster's budget cuts announced last May.
A Longstanding Television Career Interrupted by Cuts
The 72-year-old GP, who began his television career in 1989 as the TV-am doctor, had been a fixture on Lorraine since its launch in 2010. He previously served as the health and medical advisor on GMTV from 1993, continuing through its transitions to Daybreak and Lorraine as health editor. His final regular appearance on ITV was on New Year's Eve, after which he became a free agent, though he hinted at potential guest returns.
Measles Discussion Sparks Return Amid Controversy
On GB News, Dr Hilary joined hosts Eamonn Holmes, 66, and Ellie Costello, 32, to discuss the measles outbreak in north London. He urged viewers to vaccinate their children, emphasizing the importance for those under five to avoid the highly contagious viral infection, which can lead to severe complications like pneumonia or brain inflammation. He noted that the NHS offers a nearly 100% effective vaccine from age one, stating, It's really important that children under five are vaccinated. Anyone who hasn't been vaccinated – it's never too late.
Backlash from GB News Colleague Over Covid-19 Comments
However, his return was met with immediate criticism from within GB News. Bev Turner, host of The Late Show, publicly attacked Dr Hilary on X (formerly Twitter), accusing him of lying during the Covid-19 pandemic. In a now-deleted post, she claimed he unnecessarily scared millions of people and amplified covid risk while promoting mRNA vaccines. Turner suggested he should not be welcome at GB News unless he apologizes or discusses his own pericarditis diagnosis in relation to the jabs.
History of Controversy and Anti-Vaccine Protests
Dr Hilary has faced previous backlash for his pro-vaccine stance. In 2021, anti-vaccine protesters targeted his Kent home, with residents reporting a vicious group using loudspeakers and placards. Local police intervened as protesters attempted to serve legal documents. His comments on Lorraine in August 2020, where he stated vaccines protect without downside and criticized those refusing jabs, also divided viewers.
Regulatory Scrutiny and ITV's Response
In 2022, Ofcom issued guidance to ITV after Dr Hilary broadcast inaccurate information on Lorraine in December 2021 regarding unvaccinated Covid-19 patients in hospital. While nearly 4,000 viewers complained, Ofcom did not launch a formal investigation, instead advising ITV to exercise greater care. The regulator noted that the error did not materially mislead viewers on the overall protection offered by vaccination.
Future Prospects and Industry Changes
Dr Hilary's departure from ITV coincided with broader cuts, including Lorraine being reduced to 30 minutes daily for 30 weeks a year. Despite the controversies, he remains a prominent figure in television health reporting, with his return highlighting ongoing debates around public health messaging and media trust.
