Channel 4's flagship weekend programme Sunday Brunch descended into chaos during today's live broadcast when presenters Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer were forced to abandon their studio mid-show due to hazardous chemical fumes.
The dramatic incident unfolded as the popular cookery programme approached its final hour, with viewers witnessing the increasingly distressed presenters struggling to continue amid what Lovejoy described as "proper dangerous" smoke filling the studio.
The Moment Panic Set In
"We've got to stop, we've got to stop," Lovejoy urgently declared to production staff as the situation escalated. "We can't be in here, it's not safe."
The source of the emergency was revealed to be a cooking segment involving fermented potatoes, which had created what Rimmer identified as "chlorine" fumes - a potentially dangerous chemical reaction that prompted immediate evacuation protocols.
Viewer Reactions and Social Media Frenzy
As the drama unfolded on live television, viewers took to social media platforms expressing both concern and amusement at the unprecedented situation. Many praised the presenters' professionalism in handling the emergency while maintaining their composure on camera.
The incident occurred during a high-profile episode featuring celebrity guests including comedian James Acaster and musician Self Esteem, adding to the dramatic nature of the interruption.
Behind the Scenes Chaos
Production staff could be heard scrambling in the background as the presenters made the difficult decision to halt broadcasting. Lovejoy's growing concern became increasingly evident as he repeatedly emphasised the potential danger to everyone in the studio.
"We're going to have to stop the show because we can't be in here with this," he stated firmly, highlighting the seriousness of the situation that transformed a routine cooking segment into a genuine health and safety emergency.
Return to Airwaves
Following a necessary evacuation and ventilation period, the show eventually returned to air with presenters and crew safely back in position, though visibly shaken by the experience.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of live television broadcasting and the potential hazards that can emerge even in seemingly controlled studio environments.
