BBC Morning Live host Gethin Jones announced at the start of Friday's broadcast that the show is taking a break over the summer period. Presenters Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton returned to the BBC studio on July 10 to host the programme, joined by gardening expert Mark Lane, Rip Off Britain's Louise Minchin, Dr Punam Krishan, lawyer Gary Rycroft, and Strictly Come Dancing star Greg Rutherford in the Strictly Fitness slot.
Gethin Jones Reveals Summer Break
Making light of not being seated at the desk with his co-stars, Greg Rutherford remarked: "What's this all about? It's the last show and I've been kicked out." Gethin then announced: "Speaking of the summer holidays, we're gonna have a little break after today." The return date for Morning Live has not yet been confirmed.
Replacement Programme: Animal Park
From next week, Morning Live will be replaced by fresh episodes of Animal Park, broadcasting immediately after BBC Breakfast from 9.30am until 10.15am. The documentary series is also scheduled to air from the following Monday (July 20). Kate Humble and Ben Fogle will mark 25 years of Animal Park, looking back at unforgettable animal tales and their lasting friendship. Fresh challenges include introducing hippo families, observing mischievous meerkats, and a touching anniversary surprise from the keepers, ending with an emotional tribute at Longleat Safari Park. Throughout the week, Kate and Ben will introduce maned wolves to the park for the first time, while friction builds within the pride following the loss of lioness Malaika last year.
Earlier Break for Death News
The announcement of Morning Live's break comes after the programme was paused earlier this week for some "sad" death news. Thursday's (July 9) live broadcast came to a temporary standstill during Dr Ranj Singh's health feature, as Gethin Jones announced the death of Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler at the age of 75. Gethin said: "Ranj, we'll come back to you in just a second to talk about insect bites. Just hearing some breaking news this morning. Singer Bonnie Tyler, known for hits including Total Eclipse of the Heart, has died at the age of 75." The presenter then shared a statement from Bonnie's website, which read: "Bonnie's family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for. We will issue a further statement shortly but for now ask for privacy to deal with this tragedy." Morning Live airs weekdays on BBC One at 9.30am.
