Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid has publicly addressed a wave of criticism from viewers regarding the programme's noticeably smaller and "cramped" new studio, which debuted on Monday 5th January 2026.
Viewer Backlash Over Downsized Set
The long-running ITV breakfast show returned after its Christmas break in a brand new space, having moved from the Television Centre to the ITN headquarters in central London as part of wider cost-saving measures. Co-hosted by Susanna Reid and Ed Balls, the first broadcast from the scaled-down set immediately drew comments on social media platform X.
Fans were quick to note that the presenters appeared unusually close to their guests, with Susanna, 55, seen leaning back during an interview with Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch. One viewer commented that the setup looked "too cramped and uncomfortable," while another criticised the backdrop, saying the London skyline looked "like a very bad print." A third added: "I’m sorry, I don’t like the new studio, too small & far too close to each other."
Reid's Direct Response to Critics
In the face of the complaints, Susanna Reid took to X to offer a direct and upbeat rebuttal. She wrote: "New studio = big headlines! More than happy to be closer to our brilliant guests…" Her co-presenter, former Labour shadow chancellor Ed Balls, had earlier shared a photo from the new set, captioning it: "New Year, New Studio - we’re off on GMB in 2026!"
However, the criticism extended beyond the set's size. Some viewers pointed out awkward camera angles, with one asking if the gallery team had been replaced, citing "awful camera angles" and incorrect cuts. Another observed that with multiple people at the desk, the constant leaning created a "human leaning towers" effect in certain shots.
The Wider Context of ITV's Daytime Shake-up
This studio move is not an isolated change but part of a significant restructuring at ITV. The relocation comes amid budget cuts that have seen 220 jobs lost and a reshuffle of on-air talent, with regulars like Charlotte Hawkins moving to present other programmes including ITV News bulletins.
The austerity measures have reportedly affected even small comforts; staff were allegedly told they could not bring toasters to the new ITN workspace due to health and safety concerns in a basement kitchen, prompting an insider to say everyone would have to bring pre-made breakfasts.
Meanwhile, other flagship daytime shows like Lorraine, This Morning, and Loose Women have relocated to a 360-degree LED studio at The H Club in Covent Garden. Almost 900 hours of live programming a year will be produced from this single, shared space as ITV seeks "more cutting edge and efficient ways" to produce content.
Emma Gormley, ITV Studios Daytime's managing director, thanked teams for their dedication during this "time of transformation for the entire industry." Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.
