Dermot O'Leary has told fans how he spent his special birthday as they continued to marvel at his youthful appearance. The This Morning star took to social media to thank those who sent their best wishes as he celebrated turning 50 on Wednesday (May 24).
Dermot, who is still probably famed for his years hosting The X Factor, took the day off his hosting duties on This Morning after he and his usual Friday co-host Alison Hammond were drafted in at the eleventh hour this week to replace Phillip Schofield following the shock news he had quit with 'immediate effect'.
Following the news, it was also confirmed that Holly Willoughby, while continuing to front the show, would be taking an extra week off before her planned half-term break next week and therefore won't be back on screens until Monday, June 5.
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Instead of Dermot, Alison was joined by Craig Doyle on the mid-week show and after a day of celebrating, the TV star took to social media to share how he spent his 50th birthday.
Posing outside with golden balloons spelling out his age, Dermot beamed as he sported a grey tee under a black shirt which he paired with some smart black trousers and brown shoes. "Thanks a million for all the lovely messages," he typed on social media. "Wild swim, brunch, walk, steak. 50… not so bad so far."
His celebrity pals, including Alison, were quick to respond with more birthday wishes but many of his followers and fans were still stunned by Dermot's age. Journalist and author Bryony Gordon said: "You look about 20. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"
BBC weather presenter Owain Wyn Evans commented: "50? I don’t believe it sorry! Hope you had a great birthday love." @chloelouisegroom posted: "Look like 35 mate. Happy birthday." @jessyb05 replied: "Absolutely no way you are 50!" @westonrg wrote: "50? Jeez! Look good on it pal!"
@vicknight1977 shared: "How on earth are you 50!!" @laviedejuan commented: "Wow! Would have never thought! Happy birthday and many more!" @saaliws_ added: "No, can’t believe your 50, happy birthday."
It comes after a body language expert suggested Dermot appeared 'uneasy' as he and Alison Hammond kicked off the first episode of This Morning since Phillip's exit with a tribute to their now-former colleague. Dissecting Alison and Dermot's start to the show, body language expert Darren Stanton told Betfair that the presenters showed ‘sadness’ towards Phillip’s show departure during their ‘genuine tribute’ despite it being slammed by viewers.
"Alison did most of the talking and displayed lots of open palm gestures, which is a sign of openness and honesty," Darren said. "Despite appearing slightly nervous, Dermot was especially good in his delivery and getting his words out. I think Dermot is the most affected, but they both showed genuine sadness over Phillip’s departure.
Darren also said that Dermot displayed ‘uneasiness and uncertainty’ as he suggested it will ‘take time for the pair to find their feet this week’. He said: "There’s quite a lot of tell-tale signs in Dermot and Alison’s body language today that proved the pair were slightly uncomfortable. It wasn’t specifically their personalities, but clearly there’s an awkwardness in the studio."
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