HAMM-OFF
Alison Hammond off This Morning amid theatre row – as new stars take over for Easter Monday show
ALISON Hammond and Dermot O'Leary have taken a break from This Morning today.
The pair, who have both released statements after coming under fire from theatre performers, are off air this week.
3
3
The pair - the show's main stand-in hosts - were replaced by Josie Gibson and Craig Doyle on today's show.
He made reference to both Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby, who are the main presenters, and Alison and Dermot, who are the regular deputies.
This Morning has been involved in a row over whether theatregoers should be allowed to sing during shows after discussing the subject on Wednesday.
Alison, 48, sparked controversy on This Morning when she said: "I can’t believe it. I’d be devastated. I’m not even going to go to that show now.”
More on Alison Hammond
The star later issued an apology for the comments and referenced a performance of The Bodyguard in Manchester where police were called to an audience bust-up.
Alison said: "After reflection and the comments I made on Wednesday's show I want to apologise to anyone who I offended especially the incredibly talented theatre performers, who I have the upmost respect for.
"I had no idea the level of disruption audiences were causing and tried to make light of the topic on Wednesday's show, and for that I'm truly sorry.
"I am a great supporter of theatre and the arts and would never sing at the top of my lungs at any performance, I was wrong in what I said and I've given this a lot of thought over the past few days and believe I was wrong.
Most read in TV
"On Thursday evening I attended a performance of the GBBO the musical which I absolutely loved and gave a standing ovation, theatre is a magical experience for me and my family.
"I want to use my platform for good as always and want to stand up with the performers, front of house and theatre staff especially after seeing what happened at The Bodyguard in Manchester which has made me sick to my stomach."
However, former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips replied: "Alison thank you for your apology but I would just like to say, you have no idea what it is really like for those performers in the shows where the songs are popular hits and certain members of the audience feel entitled to join in."
Dermot insisted they were actually saying people should not sing loudly during shows.
In his own statement yesterday, he wrote: "A lot of people commenting about a reaction to a story we covered on This Morning about the 'Bodyguard' show and audiences singing along.
"Could I politely urge anyone passing judgement on the clip to watch the whole interview... as I was actually arguing AGAINST people singing too loudly in theatres."
He concluded: "Nothing but love and respect for those treading the boards. Peace and love to all. Now, back to those Easter eggs... Dx."
3
Topics