Alison Hammond Opens Up on Heartbreaking Loss in New Channel 4 Show
Ahead of the premiere of her new Channel 4 programme, Your Song, Alison Hammond has shared a deeply personal story about the song that holds the most meaning for her. The This Morning presenter revealed that the powerful ballad Shallow by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper brings her to tears, as it reminds her of her mother, Maria, who passed away in 2020.
Emotional Connection to Music
In an interview with the Radio Times, Hammond explained that her mother was obsessed with the song from the 2018 film A Star Is Born. "Since she passed, the tears come as soon as I hear it," she said. Hammond added that her mother would have loved Your Song, as she enjoyed shows like Bake Off and For the Love of Dogs. She credits her mother with inspiring her career in show business, stating, "My whole career is centred around my mum, because she got me into showbiz."
Your Song Showcases a Softer Side
The new series, which features Hammond chatting with members of the public about songs that are special to them, often brings out her emotions. "Your Song shows my softer side because I cry most episodes," she admitted. Hammond finds the stories shared by participants—such as those about bullying or illness—deeply moving. She believes the show highlights the transformative power of music, saying, "It can literally change your mood – put a smile on your face, make you sad, make you reminisce."
Busy Schedule Leads to Missed Opportunities
Despite her enthusiasm for Your Song, Hammond's hectic schedule has forced her to turn down other high-profile opportunities. She revealed that she was approached by the Strictly Come Dancing team as a potential replacement for Tess Daly or Claudia Winkleman, but had to decline due to time constraints. "I'm so busy, I'm not sure it's going to happen. It's unrealistic," she said, noting that commitments like Traitors clashed with the offer.
Rising Career and Public Criticism
Hammond's career has soared in recent years, with key roles including replacing Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford on This Morning in 2020, which reportedly led to a 44% increase in viewership. She also took over from Matt Lucas on Bake Off in 2023 and Paul O'Grady on For the Love of Dogs in 2024, and launched her own BBC One series, Alison Hammond's Big Weekend, last year.
However, her frequent television appearances have drawn some criticism from viewers who find her personality overwhelming. Hammond, who earns an estimated £600,000 annually from ITV, remains unfazed. "It's part and parcel of the role; this is the reality of the industry," she told the Telegraph. She views the attention as a sign of success, adding, "All bad press is good press, I suppose."
Your Song begins on Sunday night at 9pm on Channel 4, offering a heartfelt exploration of music's impact on real people's lives.
