Sunday Brunch viewers issued a wave of complaints just minutes into the broadcast as host Tim Lovejoy was notably absent from the live show. The popular cooking programme faced a significant shake-up on Sunday, March 8, 2026, when it was temporarily moved from its usual Channel 4 slot to sister channel E4.
Paralympics Coverage Triggers Channel Switch
The relocation was necessary to make way for Channel 4's extensive coverage of the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. The network is broadcasting over 60 hours of live sport from the Italian Dolomites, taking over the typical Sunday morning schedule.
Simon Rimmer and Yinka Bokinni Open the Show
Opening the programme, Simon Rimmer addressed the changes directly, stating, "Good morning and welcome to Sunday Brunch on E4, I am Simon Rimmer, and this morning I'm joined by the lovely Yinka Bokinni." Yinka explained Tim Lovejoy's absence, saying, "Tim is actually having a lie-in this morning, so I'm actually filling in for him this week and next week. But don't worry, everyone, you're in good hands; he's left a handover."
She added, "I've been fully briefed on what to expect. So you ready for this? Because it's very Tim." Yinka then read out Lovejoy's humorous handover notes, which included quips like, "You don't have to be crazy to work here, but it helps," and "Keep calm and carry on."
Viewer Reactions to the Changes
Fans quickly took to social media to share their thoughts on the altered dynamic. One viewer compared it to other famous duos, writing, "Not the same without Tim, you can't have Ant without Dec." Another questioned, "@timlovejoy too good for E4 then…?" while a third commented, "She's a bit too loud! Missing Tim. #SundayBrunch."
Some echoed the sentiment, with one stating, "Never thought I'd say this, but not the same without Tim." However, not all feedback was negative; other viewers expressed enthusiasm for Yinka's hosting. One supporter wrote, "Yes, Yinka," while another said, "Love this. I’m 100% tuning in," and a third called it "perfection."
Behind-the-Scenes Banter
During the broadcast, Simon Rimmer shared a lighthearted anecdote from their preparation, revealing, "Me and Yinka have known each other for a little while, and we did our script meeting before, and at the end of that, I said, 'Is there anything you worry about? Any questions?' and she said, 'All I'm thinking about is I must remember to moisturise my knees'." Yinka laughed in response, joking, "Yes, you can't be having ashy knees on E4. I've got a brand to represent."
The show continues to be available for streaming on All4, offering fans a chance to catch up on the episode despite the scheduling changes. This temporary move highlights the impact of major sporting events on regular television programming, sparking mixed reactions from loyal viewers accustomed to the classic hosting duo.
