Alison Hammond left This Morning on Friday, October 2, while the show was still on air after falling ill. Her co-host Dermot O'Leary was left to present the programme alone as he explained the reason for her absence.
Dermot and Alison host Friday's edition, while Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley present the ITV daytime show for the rest of the week. About an hour into the programme, Alison left the broadcast.
Dermot explains Alison's sudden exit
During a phone-in from pet owners with Dr Scott, there appeared to be problems in the studio as the camera caught Dermot helping Alison out of the studio, while Dr Scott looked concerned, reports The Daily Star.
Dermot explained her absence and later said she would not be returning to the show. He said: "Welcome back to This Morning, Alison is feeling a little unwell, so she's just had to duck out. Hopefully she'll be back."
He later added: "Ali's feeling a little unwell so I'll be here for the rest of the show."
Viewers send support
Viewers took to social media to express their concerns for the beloved presenter. One person wrote: "Hope Alison Is ok and its nothing more than a bit unwell." Another said: "Plenty of people there to care for Alison. Get well soon lovely x."
Someone else wrote: "I am very worried about Alison, I hope she is ok, she's a great presenter, I love her." Another said: "Hope Alison Hammond is ok? Sending prayers."
Alison's career and bond with Dermot
Alison has become a familiar face on screens, after first rising to fame on Big Brother before going on to present This Morning, The Great British Bake Off and For The Love of Dogs.
She previously spoke about taking time off work after a "very busy" 2024. She told Dermot: "I want a little bit more time off this year, I've been very busy."
Dermot replied: "I'm manifesting for Alison to take less time off, sorry Alison, but I miss you when you're not here."
The pair have previously spoken about their close bond, with Alison saying of Dermot: "I just love him so much."
Speaking ahead of her Best Presenter nomination at the 2022 NTAs, she said: "Dermot came to my house the other day and I just love him so much."
She added: "He is my partner in crime. I just think he's amazing. He came down and I cooked him some chicken, rice and peas and he said it was the best dinner he's ever had!"
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX.
