Viewers of ITV's This Morning were left in a state of confusion on Tuesday when the show's regular weather presenter, Sally Williams, was unexpectedly absent from her usual segment. Without any prior announcement, she was replaced by meteorologist Emma Jesson, who typically appears on ITV's weekend news programmes.
Sudden Change Sparks Fan Backlash
As the weather update aired during an ad break, fans quickly took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their bewilderment and disappointment. Many were vocal in their queries about Sally's whereabouts, with some making humorous comparisons about the new presenter.
One viewer posted alongside an image of Emma presenting: 'I'm sorry, who are you?' Another chimed in with: 'Where TF is Sally? I've got a history teacher instead.' A third added: 'A new weather woman? Who's that?' while a fourth agreed: 'Where's Sally? We've got a barmaid today.'
Emma Jesson Steps In
Emma Jesson, who has a background in meteorology and is a familiar face on ITV's weekend broadcasts, handled the segment professionally. She updated viewers on the latest developments regarding Storm Chandra and detailed the weather forecast across the UK for January 27. Despite her experience, the abrupt substitution left many loyal fans of Sally Williams feeling unsettled and questioning the reason behind the change.
Carol Kirkwood's Emotional BBC Departure
In a related development from the world of broadcast meteorology, BBC Breakfast's beloved weather presenter Carol Kirkwood announced her departure from the show after more than two decades. The 63-year-old, trained by the Met Office, struggled with emotion as she revealed the news live on air, immediately after delivering an update on Storm Chandra.
Carol, who hails from Morar in Scotland, explained her decision, joking that she didn't want to be 'coming in in my Zimmer frame'. She cited a desire to spend more time with her husband, police officer Steve Randall, whom she married in late 2023, as well as plans to travel and focus on writing novels, having already published five.
A Tearful Farewell
Carol had kept her departure a secret from friends and colleagues, making the announcement particularly poignant. Presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay offered comfort, with Jon providing tissues and both giving her a heartfelt hug on air. Sally Nugent lightened the mood by noting that Carol would now enjoy the luxury of a lie-in.
Carol's career at the BBC began in 1998, and she has become a household name through her work on BBC News and BBC Breakfast, where she has been the main weather presenter since 2010. Her cheerful demeanour and memorable reports from events like Wimbledon and the Chelsea Flower Show have earned her a loyal following, industry awards, and even a stint on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015.
Industry Context and Fan Reactions
The unexpected replacement on This Morning highlights the often-unpredictable nature of live television and the strong connections viewers form with regular presenters. While Emma Jesson is a competent meteorologist, the lack of warning about Sally Williams's absence left fans feeling disconnected and vocal on social media.
This incident follows a trend of changes in weather presenting roles across UK broadcasters, as seen with Carol Kirkwood's departure from the BBC. It underscores the importance of clear communication with audiences to maintain trust and engagement in daytime programming.
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX, continuing its blend of news, entertainment, and weather updates amidst this period of transition in its presenting team.
