This Morning Duo Squash Feud Rumours Amid Ratings Slump
Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard, the new presenting duo on ITV's This Morning, have vehemently denied rumours of a "secret feud" behind the scenes, claiming they "can't believe how well they get on". The pair took over the daytime staple in March this year, replacing Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, but speculation about their on-screen chemistry and alleged behind-the-scenes disagreements has been rife.
Viewers have pointed to "heated on-screen moments" and "awkward chats" as evidence of a strained relationship, but Deeley and Shephard have dismissed these claims ahead of their return to the show on 2 September.
In a recent interview with the Mail On Sunday, Shephard spoke highly of his co-star, describing Deeley as "quick, witty and smart" and praising her self-deprecating humour. "We are so similar; the same things make us laugh," he added. "I canât get my head around how easy she is. Sheâs the first to laugh and take the mickey out of herself, which is a hugely important quality."
Deeley echoed Shephard's sentiments, stating: "We talk about this all the time. I canât believe how well we get on."
Despite their claims of a strong working relationship, This Morning has experienced a significant ratings decline since the new presenters took over. Viewership figures have dropped from 1,589,000 to an average of 486,000 in the first two months, with their BBC1 rival, Morning Live, attracting a more consistent audience of 1 million to 1.4 million viewers.
The pair have also faced criticism for a joke made by Deeley about her dancing, which she compared to "a seizure". The flippant remark sparked outrage from viewers who either have epilepsy themselves or have loved ones who do. Deeley later issued a live on-air apology, stating that she "didn't mean to cause any upset".
Despite the scrutiny and the ratings slump, Deeley and Shephard insist they are unaffected by the public's opinion. Shephard revealed that Deeley "doesnât look at any of it" and that he sends her the headlines of the day, including those about him telling her to "shut up" or "fleeing out of the studio".
"Weâve never talked about it. And the way This Morning is consumed is across a massive platform," he added. "How many eyeballs are on your social media, for example?" Deeley interjected, adding: "Itâs something like four million people."
She concluded the interview by stating: "All I know is itâs a pleasure to work with this chap here." Shephard jokingly responded that they had "struck really lucky" with their partnership.
As the new season of This Morning begins, it remains to be seen whether Deeley and Shephard can reverse the show's declining ratings and appease viewers who have expressed concerns about their on-screen dynamics. However, one thing is clear: the pair are committed to their roles and are eager to demonstrate their strong working relationship and chemistry to the public.
