ITV viewers have expressed outrage after the broadcaster replaced This Morning with James Martin's Saturday Morning Kitchen on Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December. Fans criticised the decision, noting that neither day was a Saturday, making the scheduling nonsensical.
One viewer wrote on social media: "ITV are pathetic! Why is James Martin’s Saturday Morning showing on a Tuesday? Why can’t they be bothered at all? Pathetic!" Another echoed: "Today is Monday so why are you airing James Martin Saturday Kitchen? Really is the best you can do? Pathetic."
Further complaints highlighted the confusion during the period between Christmas and New Year, known as 'Betwixtmas', when days can be easily mixed up. One viewer said: "Seeing James Martin’s Saturday Kitchen on a Tuesday morning is not helping during this period."
This Morning is set to return on 5 January 2026, but with changes to ITV's daytime schedule. Good Morning Britain will be extended by 30 minutes, ending at 9:30am, while Lorraine will be shortened, airing until 10am. This Morning will then run from 10am to 12:30pm, followed by Loose Women. However, Lorraine and Loose Women will only air for 30 weeks a year, with GMB covering the slot when Lorraine is off.
ITV attributed the changes to budget cuts, stating that funds are being redirected from daytime programming to drama, sports, and entertainment. As a result, Lorraine Kelly will no longer require cover presenters, meaning Christine Lampard and Ranvir Singh will not appear on her show, though they remain with ITV on other programmes.
