ITV presenter Jeff Brazier left Loose Women viewers in a state of shock on Monday morning after delivering what fans have branded an 'awkward and unprofessional' on-air swipe at veteran panellist Ruth Langsford.
An Awkward On-Air Exchange
The 46-year-old host, who regularly fronts the show's competition segment, began his slot by complimenting Langsford's outfit, telling the 65-year-old: 'You look really gorgeous today!' He then proceeded to detail the £245,000 Christmas competition, which includes a £120,000 cash prize, a new Range Rover, a VW camper van, and £16,000 worth of luxury goods.
However, the atmosphere shifted when fellow panellists Janet Street Porter, Brenda Edwards, and Jane Moore began speaking over his segment. An evidently irritated Brazier hit back, saying: 'I'm doing my comp bit, guys, let me carry on!' He then directly addressed Langsford, adding: 'I'm sorry, Ruth, when I give compliments I don't want it to end my competition time. So next time, if I say a nice compliment, don't say anything back just say "Cheers Jeff!" and that'll do me.'
A visibly taken-aback Ruth Langsford replied with an awkward smile to the camera: 'Listen, whatever! Your wish is my command Jeffrey! Thank you very much!'
Viewer Reaction and a Disastrous Phone-In
Fans were quick to voice their bewilderment on social media platform X. One viewer questioned: 'Jeff, who's rattled your cage? Not very professional!' Another simply stated: 'Well that was an awkward moment Jeff,' while a third asked: 'Um... slightly awkward moment today thanks to Jeff Brazier telling Ruth Langsford off for *checks notes* replying incorrectly to a compliment. Is he okay?'
This uncomfortable incident comes just days after Brazier faced a different kind of on-air mishap. During a live phone-in last Friday to announce a competition winner, he was forced to prove he wasn't a scam caller after the confused recipient insisted she hadn't entered any contest. The flustered presenter attempted to verify his identity live on air with Kate Garraway and Rob Rinder, asking the woman to switch on her TV before eventually arranging for a producer to call her back.
Personal Turmoil Behind the Scenes
The professional challenges coincide with a difficult period in Brazier's personal life. The TV host was spotted at Heathrow Airport last week, appearing pensive and without his wedding ring, following his confirmation of a split from his wife of seven years, Kate.
In a lengthy statement released on Instagram, the 46-year-old revealed the marriage broke down over the summer, stating they 'discovered we couldn't make each other happy'. He cited a difficult year involving fractured relations with his 21-year-old son, Freddy, who is expecting his first child. Despite the separation, Brazier expressed 'love and gratitude' for Kate, praising her unconditional care and successful career.
Just 24 hours after announcing the split, Brazier was back on screen, broadcasting from Iceland's Blue Lagoon for Good Morning Britain, demonstrating a determined focus on his work amidst the personal and professional turbulence.
