The One Show's 20th anniversary special was thrown into chaos when the government's emergency wildfire alert interrupted hosts Alex Jones and Roman Kemp. The pair were presenting an hour-long special edition of the programme on Friday, August 14, when multiple loud alarms disrupted their broadcast.
Anniversary Celebration Disrupted
Alex and Roman were joined in the studio by the extended presenting family, including Angellica Bell, Clara Amfo, JB Gill and Vernon Kay, to celebrate the programme's milestone. Former presenters Matt Baker and Christine Lampard also returned to the green sofa to reminisce, while a special film from the original host Adrian Chiles was featured.
As the hosts briefed viewers on what was coming up, the sound of alarms blared through the studio. Struggling to stay on track, Alex said: "You couldn't make that up could you. I think it's a fire alarm but we'll continue for you and I'm doing my best to keep a straight face."
Nationwide Alert
Millions of Brits across England and Wales had received the emergency notification on their mobile devices from 7pm, warning against igniting anything that might trigger a wildfire, including barbecues, campfires and fireworks.
Viewers flocked to social media to share their reactions. One viewer wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "Blimey! I thought I was the only one who received that alert! #TheOneShow." Another said: "It's a government alert #theoneshow." A third remarked: "WTF woz that nearly had a heart attack then it's started going off on #TheOneShow too."
Programme's History
The One Show has seen many presenters since its debut in 2006. Adrian Chiles and Nadia Sawalha hosted the first episodes, with Nadia fronting the show throughout its trial period before Myleene Klass took over, followed by Christine and Alex. Alex has remained a fixture for 16 years.
Discussing her time on the show, Alex said: "I can't believe it. Ultimately, it's not about us who host it. The show itself is an institution, and it's really found a way into people's hearts. Especially since the pandemic I think, it's become part of Britain's daily routine."
She added: "People switch on at 7pm and they know that they will get really good guests but also there's always interesting VTs or we're out around the UK celebrating individuals who've done something amazing in their community. It's impossible to turn The One Show on and say I hate everything. I just don't believe that you can."
