Lorraine Kelly’s anniversary special left viewers ‘switching off’ within minutes, as they found the tribute to her 40-year television career a bit too much. The 64-year-old Scottish host was taken by surprise with an episode dedicated to her, about which she claimed to have ‘no idea’.
Before her self-titled chat show, Lorraine appeared on Good Morning Britain with Susanna Reid and Ed Balls, confessing her total unawareness of what was planned. She disclosed that the programme had been ‘hijacked’ by two very special women, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Later, fellow hosts Christine Lampard and Ranvir Singh took over the reins and surprised Lorraine with a unique show. It featured a series of special guests making unexpected appearances to congratulate her on her career milestone, along with various flashback clips of the star.
Lorraine was joined by her younger brother Graham, who showed up on the screen behind her in the studio. This unusual involvement left the presenter stunned as he typically shies away from TV appearances.
The TV star gasped and laughed, confessing: “I was horrid to him.” Meanwhile, co-star Ross King struggled to hold back tears while reminiscing about his memories with Lorraine.
A clip from his first appearance on the programme, nearly 20 years ago, was shown, leading him to joke: “Wow, that was nearly 20 pounds ago for me! One of us hasn’t changed and it is not me!”
The LA-based entertainment correspondent expressed to Lorraine that although he’s on American TV, she made him feel very welcome. However some viewers weren’t all too thrilled with the show’s anniversary segment, flocking to social media to share their candid thoughts.
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One unimpressed viewer said: “It’s not even 10am yet and I’m watching Lorraine Kelly sing padam padam dressed as an owl, what’s the world come to.” Another expressed their distaste: “What is this rubbish? How is this show still going #lorraine I am cringing SO much #Lorraine.”
A third voiced their displeasure: “Plz make it stop. My God this is getting switched off this morning. Can morning live hurry up so I can turn over.”
Meanwhile, a fourth person was bemused: “What the hell is this! Is it national #Lorraine day, I can’t watch this. Worse episode of ‘this is your life’ ever! #Lorraine.”
On a positive note, some were quite taken with the programme, with one saying: “Happy 40 years on TV Lorraine Kelly! Here’s to many more.”
2024 has been a remarkable year for Lorraine, as she was honoured at the BAFTA TV Awards, became a published novelist, and welcomed the new chapter of being a grandmother. ITV showcased her journey in broadcasting with the documentary entitled “Lorraine Kelly: 40 Unforgettable Years”, which aired on Wednesday night (October 2) at 9pm.