Match of the Day viewers expressed concern for presenter Mark Chapman after a subdued introduction to the October 24 broadcast, with many taking to social media to ask 'what's going on'.
The 53-year-old has co-presented the football highlights show since the beginning of last season, one of three presenters brought in to replace Gary Lineker. Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan are the other two, with the trio selected by Alex Kay-Jelski, the BBC Director of Sport.
Viewers react to 'awkward' broadcast
On Saturday night (October 24), Mark was joined by Arsenal legend Martin Keown and Lioness Steph Houghton for the roundup of the day's action. Introducing coverage of Aston Villa's win against Manchester City, Mark kept his intro straightforward.
"Five games on Match of the Day. Martin Keown and Steph Houghton are with us, and we start with Aston Villa against Manchester City, commentary from Simon Brotherton," he said.
Appearing tense and with a somewhat demotivated tone, Mark had his arms folded at the end of the night when it was time for the credits to roll. "That's it from us. Thanks to Martin and Steph. Goodnight," he said.
Social media response
This led many viewers to take to X, previously known as Twitter, to share their thoughts on the episode. Some expressed fears over Mark, while others criticised him for appearing disinterested.
@H4RRYKH4N said: "Granted, ive not watched #MOTD in while but pretty sure the host is usually quite a lot more cheerful when they start the show as opposed to how Mark Chapman just started it." @xTeacherTx added: "I noticed this, I hope he's ok but it's making viewing a bit awkward."
@charlotteahenry wrote: "I regard Mark Chapman as the best sports broadcaster in the country. Thought I was going mad when I watched the intro last night. Rushed and lifeless. What's going on?" @ChopperH5791 posted: "Strange vibe in the studio tonight. Can't get over that straight to business intro from Chapman."
Personal context
It emerged last month that Mark and Kelly have begun a romantic relationship, with reports claiming they began dating each other earlier this year. Earlier in the year, Mark ended his relationship with Dubai-based estate agent Clere Collier after three years together.
In 2020, Mark suffered the devastating loss of his wife, Sara, to cancer when she was just 44. They had been married for 19 years and shared three children. Kelly, the daughter of Scotland and Liverpool icon Sir Kenny Dalglish, is a well-known face in sports broadcasting and ended her marriage to TV producer husband Tom five years ago, having tied the knot in 2007 and welcomed two daughters.
