ITV's 2026 schedule shake-up has arrived, and it's a bittersweet moment for fans. With budget cuts, some beloved shows are facing unexpected changes. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as we dive into this dramatic shift!
The Big Shake-Up
ITV has unveiled its brand-new daytime schedule, and it's a game-changer. Budget constraints have forced the channel to make tough decisions, resulting in shorter airtimes for fan-favorite shows. But here's where it gets controversial: while some shows are getting the axe, others are expanding, leaving viewers with a mix of emotions.
Good Morning Britain's Extension
Good Morning Britain, a morning staple, has been extended by a whopping 30 minutes! Starting at the early hour of 6 a.m., the show now runs until 9:30 a.m. This move, however, has a ripple effect on other programs.
Lorraine's Shortened Run
Lorraine Kelly's eponymous show, Lorraine, has taken a hit. With Good Morning Britain's extension, Lorraine's show has been slashed by 30 minutes. Fans tuning in now will have to adjust their schedules, as the show now ends at 9:30 a.m., making way for This Morning, which starts promptly at 10 a.m.
This Morning: The Unaffected Flagship
In a surprising twist, This Morning, ITV's flagship show, remains untouched by the schedule shake-up. It will continue to conclude at its usual time of 12:30 p.m., providing a sense of stability amidst the changes.
Loose Women: Reduced Airtime
Loose Women, another popular show, will retain its running time, but there's a catch. The show will now only air for 30 weeks of the year, leaving fans wondering about the future of their beloved program.
The Impact of Budget Cuts
These changes are a direct result of ITV's budget cuts, which have led to the loss of 220 jobs across the broadcaster's daytime TV staff. It's a tough pill to swallow for both the viewers and the dedicated crew.
A New Home for GMB
Good Morning Britain, along with This Morning and Loose Women, has found a new home. After being housed at the BBC's London Television Centre since 2018, GMB will now be broadcast from ITN Studios in Central London. The other ITV daytime shows will be filmed at The H Club in Covent Garden.
The Reasoning Behind the Move
Kevin Lygo, the boss, explained the reasoning behind the big move. He stated that these changes will allow ITV to continue delivering a schedule that provides viewers with the news, debate, and discussion they love, while also generating savings to reinvest across the program budget in other genres. Additionally, it will enable the consolidation of news operations and the expansion of national, international, and regional news output, reinforcing ITV's commitment to trusted journalism.
A Tearful Goodbye
Last week, The Sun exclusively reported on the emotional farewell of the GMB team as they said goodbye to their home at the Television Centre. Sources revealed that it was a sad and difficult moment for everyone involved, as staff who had worked for ITV Daytime for years bid farewell to their beloved workplace. The sets being pulled apart and the final broadcast from Television Centre were particularly devastating, leaving a lasting impact on the entire team.
As we navigate this schedule shake-up, it's clear that change can be both exciting and bittersweet. What do you think about these adjustments? Do you agree with the changes, or do you have a different perspective? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
