Good Morning Britain fans shocked as Richard Arnold is replaced by Noughties pop star in huge shake-up
GOOD Morning Britain fans were shocked to see a new face today as Duncan James stood in for Richard Arnold as entertainment host.
The Blue singer has been hired to cover for showbiz stalwart Richard on the ITV breakfast show all week.
Richard Madeley introduced Duncan and Kate Garraway said "All Rise" as he strutted into the studio to the band's 2001 hit.
Sitting alongside the presenters, the 45-year-old told viewers he had made a quick dash to Primark to buy a suit, and had "big shoes" to fill.
He added: "I know, I've seen Richard's shoes in the dressing room."
Duncan first appeared on Good Morning Britain over two decades ago with his Blue bandmates and said the show had given them their big break and first TV appearance.
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He became emotional when footage of the sweet moment aired and Kate swooned over Duncan, telling him "you haven't changed".
The singer quipped: "I've got new teeth!"
He shared the day's showbiz news with perfect delivery, telling them about Britney's explosive upcoming TV interview with Oprah.
People at home were impressed by his GMB presenting debut and one said: "Wow Duncan, great job this morning!"
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A second shared: "@GMB Oh my darlings, let's have more of the deliciously palatable Duncan James… ineed!"
One more tweeted: "Duncan gets a 10 with flying colours; bring on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday!"
Duncan found fame alongside band members Antony Costa, Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe in Blue in 2001 and enjoyed hits such as All Rise, Too Close and One Love.
The lads have reformed a number of times in recent years, while Duncan enjoyed a stint on Hollyoaks in 2016 and again in 2018 playing policeman Ryan Knight.
Between his popstar and soapstar career, Duncan made a name for himself treading the boards in musicals.
He toured the UK as Tick in the drag queen extravaganza Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and also took on the role of Warner Huntington III in Legally Blonde: The Musical.
GMB is not his first presenting gig. He has previously hosted TV shows including Soapstar Superstar, Pop City Live and Entertainment Today on GMTV.
