Lorraine Kelly Announces Extended Break from ITV Show Amid Health and Schedule Changes
London, 13 March 2026 – Beloved Scottish television presenter Lorraine Kelly has confirmed she will be absent from her self-titled ITV daytime show for an extended period, citing health reasons and recent changes to the programme’s schedule. The 66-year-old broadcaster, a fixture on British morning television for over four decades, shared a heartfelt update with fans, revealing she will be off air for approximately seven weeks.
Health Update and Hiatus Announcement
Kelly addressed her viewers directly via social media, thanking them for their well-wishes as she recovers from what she described as a “bad lurgy.” The presenter had previously worried fans with an unexpected disappearance from the airwaves. While some reports suggested preventative surgery, Kelly’s own statement focused on a period of recovery from illness. Christine Lampard has been announced as the temporary host during Kelly’s absence, with the show expected to return to its regular slot in late April or early May.
Impact of ITV Budget Cuts
The hiatus coincides with confirmed budget cuts across ITV’s daytime programming. Kelly has previously expressed her disappointment, stating publicly that “my show is for women” and voicing concern over the reduction of television content aimed specifically at female audiences. Both Lorraine and Loose Women have been affected by these scheduling changes, leading to criticism from some viewers regarding the network’s handling of its flagship daytime shows.
Key Facts: Lorraine Kelly’s Career
Lorraine Kelly’s career spans more than 40 years on British television, making her one of the nation’s most recognised and enduring broadcasters.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lorraine Kelly CBE |
| Date of Birth | 30 November 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Glasgow, Scotland |
| Notable Roles | Presenter for TV-am, GMTV, ITV Breakfast (Daybreak), and her long-running show Lorraine. |
| Career Milestone | Celebrated four decades on television with an ITV documentary in Autumn 2024. |
| Current Status | On a seven-week hiatus from Lorraine due to health recovery and ITV schedule changes. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Lorraine Kelly not on TV?
Lorraine Kelly is taking an extended break of approximately seven weeks to recover from a recent illness, which she referred to as a “bad lurgy.” This hiatus is also part of wider ITV daytime schedule changes and budget cuts.
When will Lorraine Kelly return to her show?
Based on her statement of a “good few weeks” and reports of a seven-week break, viewers can expect Kelly to return to her ITV show in late April or early May 2026. An exact return date has not been officially confirmed by ITV.
Who is presenting the show in her absence?
Christine Lampard is standing in as the temporary host of the Lorraine programme while Kelly recuperates.
What has Lorraine Kelly said about the ITV budget cuts?
Kelly has publicly stated her disappointment, emphasising that her show is made for women and expressing concern that there are already fewer TV shows aimed at women compared to men, a situation she feels has been worsened by the recent cuts.