Viewers of Good Morning Britain weren’t impressed with how the show handled the breaking news of Pope Francis’ death, and they were especially vocal about the choice of outfit worn by presenter Ranvir Singh.
The announcement interrupted Lorraine, who was being hosted by Christine Lampard. She had been chatting with Pilgrimage star Harry Clark when she had to suddenly cut him off to hand over to GMB for the sombre update. Ranvir, who had earlier been seen in a summery dress, returned to the screen in a black jacket — but it didn’t quite land with the audience, reported the Daily Record.
The blazer, meant to reflect the tone of the news, didn’t do much to cover her bright dress, and viewers were quick to call it out online. One person posted, “Very unprofessional. It would’ve been better if you’d just gone to the ITV newsroom rather than GMB, and seen Ranvir in a clearly ill-fitting jacket loaned to her by Richard. Especially with such breaking news.”
Another sarcastically tweeted, “They put Ranvir in one of Richard’s suit jackets to read the Pope has died @gmb.” Others said it felt over the top, with one writing, “Bit OTT making Ranvir wear a black jacket #gmb.”
Despite the criticism, the announcement itself was handled with gravity. Ranvir and Richard shared the official statement from Cardinal Kevin Farrell at 7:35 am, confirming the Pope’s passing. “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35 am, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” it read.
The statement went on to describe the Pope’s devotion to service, highlighting his commitment to the poorest and most marginalised. It ended with a message of gratitude for his “example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus.”
The 88-year-old pontiff had been battling various health issues in recent months, including a hospital stay for bronchitis at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital earlier this year.
Following the announcement, tributes started flooding in from around the world — including emotional messages from stars like Whoopi Goldberg, Eva Longoria, and Antonio Banderas. Whoopi shared a touching photo with the Pope, writing, “He was the closest in a long time that seemed to remember that Christ’s love enveloped believer and non-believer.” Antonio also praised him for his kindness and compassion.
But as the world reflects on Pope Francis’ legacy, some ITV viewers were left distracted by a wardrobe misstep during what should’ve been a moment of quiet dignity.
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