BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty found herself in an awkward exchange with actor Alan Cumming during Thursday's episode, after he commented on her interviewing style. Cumming, who appeared to discuss his new role as artistic director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre, referred to an earlier segment where Munchetty had pressed a guest on the budget.
“I saw all that grilling you gave that man about the budget,” Cumming said. A visibly surprised Munchetty replied, “I’m just doing my job.” Cumming quickly added, “An excellent job, I like that,” before the conversation turned back to his hosting of the US version of The Traitors.
During the discussion, Cumming admitted he enjoys the treachery on the show, noting that contestants often develop a “pack mentality” by episodes five or six. Co-host Charlie Stayt then asked if Cumming watches current affairs and gets frustrated by interviews. Cumming said he finds US shows less rigorous, adding, “No one could do what you did,” referring to Munchetty's earlier grilling.
The exchange comes amid revelations that Cumming was originally approached to host the UK version of The Traitors, but scheduling conflicts led to Claudia Winkleman taking the role, as confirmed by BBC Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips.
