ITV has strongly denied reports that Alison Hammond is being axed as the host of For The Love of Dogs. The broadcaster issued a statement calling the claims 'entirely without foundation' after a source suggested the presenter 'hasn't lived up to expectation'.
Hammond, 49, took over the role following the death of Paul O'Grady in March 2023. Her first series began airing last month, and ITV stressed that no decisions about the show's future would be made while it is still on air. 'Everyone's really pleased with the way Alison has brought her warmth and enthusiasm to the show,' a spokesperson said.
Reports had claimed that ITV was 'very disappointed' with Hammond's performance and that conversations about her future were ongoing. However, ITV dismissed these as speculation, noting that 'standard practice means no meaningful assessment of future plans would be made at this stage'.
Hammond previously defended her appointment, saying critics who questioned her lack of a dog were using a 'flawed' argument. She encouraged detractors not to watch the show. For The Love of Dogs continues Tuesdays at 8pm on ITV and ITVX.
