Good Morning Britain returned on Monday with a new studio set, but viewers were quick to criticise the revamped look as 'cramped' and 'cheap'. Presenters Ed Balls and Susanna Reid were seen leaning back to speak to guests on the smaller desk, prompting a wave of mockery on social media.
Former Labour shadow chancellor Ed Balls posted on X: 'New Year, New Studio - we’re off on GMB in 2026!' However, the response was scathing. One viewer wrote: 'ITV cuts showing in the new set. So small, looks cheap and people sitting on top of each other.' Another commented: 'The problem with the smaller studio is when there are four people at the desk everyone leans outwards when speaking... it looks like we are constantly looking at human leaning towers.'
The show's return follows a two-day break that left viewers confused. Last week, presenters Richard Madeley and Ranvir Singh signed off by telling audiences the programme would move to a new studio and producer ITN in 2026. The break came amid ITV budget cuts, including 220 job losses and a reshuffle of presenters.
Good Morning Britain has relocated from Television Centre to ITN headquarters in central London. Staff were reportedly told their new workspace would not have toasters due to health and safety concerns, forcing them to bring packed breakfasts. An insider described the situation as 'mutiny' among the team.
