THIS Morning’s Alison Hammond broke down in tears as she paid tribute to show boss Martin Frizell on his last ever episode.
Co-host Alison, 50, became overcome with emotion as she and Josie Gibson, 40, gave the 66-year-old an emotional send-off today.
As the episode drew to a close, the presenters brought Martin onto the sofa and thanked him for supporting them over the years.
Having announced his departure in November, Martin is leaving to care for wife Fiona Phillips, who is living with Alzhiemer’s disease.
It comes just a week after This Morning’s new boss was confirmed as Vivek Sharma.
Vivek has been associate editor on the channel’s flagship daytime show for the last 15 months.
He said of his new position: “Having grown up watching the show, it’s an incredible privilege and honour to take on the role of dditor of This Morning.
“Over the last 37 years, the show has become a national institution and has been responsible for some of the most memorable moments on television.
“It’s a cherished part of millions of people’s mornings on TV and on social media, where someone interacts with This Morning content every second.
“The team on and off camera are world-class and I can’t wait to work alongside them in my new role, as we shape the future of this iconic brand.”
Before joining This Morning, Vivek worked on shows including Lorraine and Good Morning Britain.
Martin will use his time away from London’s White City to spend more time – and care for – his wife, former GMTV presenter Fiona Phillips who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2022.
In a statement announcing his departure, he said: “Next year I’m expecting my family priorities to change so I need to free up time for them.
“I love my team at ITV and will miss them and the thrill of live telly but it’s an always on, 24 hours a day, seven days a week commitment and I won’t be able to do both.”
The Sun previously told how This Morning is facing a potential huge overhaul as Martin steps away.
An insider said: “This really is the end of an era for daytime telly; huge changes are afoot.
“The show has never truly recovered from Holly and Phil’s departure, and this is a chance to move on from the old guard and bring in fresh faces to detoxify the brand once and for all.”
