This Morning viewers were full of praise for Josie Gibson after her interview with Ricky Gervais took an unexpected turn during Friday's (August 7) programme. The comedian appeared on the ITV daytime show alongside Paddy McGuinness to promote his new Netflix animated series, Alley Cats, but it was Josie's sharp interview skills that had viewers talking online.
Fans react to Josie's direct questioning
One fan wrote: "Josie was brilliantly direct in that interview. Very funny segment." Another added: "Josie vs Ricky G is a pretty good combo." Although the conversation began with Ricky's latest project, Josie quickly moved on to more personal topics. At one point, she jokingly asked how he manages to stay grounded despite being "absolutely loaded" after decades of success.
Ricky on making it at 40
Ricky responded by explaining that he feels that breaking into the industry at 40-years-old helped. The 65-year-old said: "I think because I made it when I was 40. I think if you make it at when you're 18, it changes you. Whereas I was already fat and I hated the world," he joked. Discussing the similarities between himself and his Alley Cats character Gus, he admitted he isn't particularly fond of being around people and much prefers relaxing indoors.
"It's my favourite thing!" he said. "It's couch, me, girlfriend, cat, wine, Netflix." He also joked that the only reason he leaves the house these days is because he has work commitments, saying of his tours: "I've already been paid so I've got to do it."
Ricky's relationship with Jane
Josie then put Ricky on the spot about his long-term partner Jane. The interview then took another unexpected turn when Josie asked Ricky about his relationship of over 40 years. "Have you not married Jane then? Is she still your girlfriend?" she asked. After a brief pause, Ricky replied: "Yeah. Yeah - we do everything. We are married, really. But just not in the eyes of God." Josie simply responded: "Right, okay!" before the conversation continued.
Ricky and Jane have been together for more than 40 years and started dating in 1982 after meeting while studying at University College London. While Ricky went on to become one of Britain's best-known comedians, actors and writers through projects including The Office, Jane established herself as a bestselling novelist in her own right. Despite spending more than four decades together, the couple have never married and have previously explained that it has never been something either of them felt they needed.
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1.
