Angela Scanlon steps in to host This Morning as Cat Deeley misses live show
angela scanlon stepped in on Tuesday to co-present This Morning after Cat Deeley did not appear on the live programme, a move that left viewers asking questions while the replacement kept the show running with family anecdotes and a packed agenda.
Angela Scanlon joins the presenting team
Ben Shepherd (also shown as Ben Shephard in other coverage) opened the programme and welcomed Angela Scanlon, explaining simply that Cat Deeley was away and offering no further details about her absence. Ben described the appearance as a brief playdate with Angela and introduced her to viewers as the show continued.
On-air exchange and family talk
On air, the hosts traded light-hearted chat: angela scanlon joked that half term at home had been like a "boxing match, " referencing family life with a four-year-old and a daughter who is "soon-to-be eight" and who turns eight tomorrow. She said they had celebrated with a birthday haircut and "birthday bangs, " noting the new look was a grown-up choice inspired by Hannah Montana. Ben replied with a quip about family lineage and pointed out that the children were back at school, allowing the presenters to focus on the studio show.
What viewers saw on the show
The programme informed viewers it would cover national headlines and panel discussion items. A guest segment was billed to discuss a recent arrest and subsequent bail development tied to Peter Mandelson, with Nick Ferrari and Ashley James scheduled to join the conversation. Ben also framed a lighter entertainment slot, saying the 1990s — an era that produced the Spice Girls, Friends and Snake — remained iconic for fashion and culture.
Where was Cat Deeley?
Viewers noticed Cat Deeley, who is 49 and normally fronts the daytime series alongside Ben throughout the week, was not present as the titles rolled. There was no explanation on air beyond the statement that she was away; Ben and Cat had hosted the show together on Monday, making her absence notable to regular viewers.
Viewer reaction and social chatter
Online reaction showed audiences wondering where Cat was and reacting to the last-minute change. Some viewers flagged a continuity announcer slight as if studio teams had not updated on-screen information. Others welcomed Angela's presence: comments called her a breath of fresh air and suggested she improved the show's watchability, with some viewers saying she should be given more regular presenting opportunities.
Scanlon's recent TV work and other projects
Angela Scanlon is known for previous hosting roles and a high-profile stint on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. She is married to Roy Horgan and has two daughters, Ruby and Marnie. Scanlon also presents a podcast with Vicky Pattison and previously stepped in to present the programme just before Christmas alongside Dermot O'Leary, who is named among the presenters who provide cover with Alison Hammond.
Practical details and next steps
This Morning continues to air from 10am on weekdays. The immediate lineup featured the planned political and cultural segments, and Angela Scanlon remained on air to steer those conversations while viewers continued to ask where Cat Deeley was. Details about Cat Deeley's absence were not provided on air, and the situation may evolve.
