Alison Hammond gave Dermot O'Leary his marching orders on today's This Morning.
The popular presenters returned in their usual slot to front Friday's edition of ITV's flagship daytime programme. At the start of the show, Dermot explained how Alison's "dreams were going to come true" as he was leaving the studio for a special segment.
He said: "She's kicking me out of the studio. I'm going to get up close and personal with some of my favourite local animals."
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The two went on to host another jam-packed edition which included interviews with the Apprentice winner, Marnie Swindells, and runner-up, Rochelle Anthony. Alison ended the interview by ordering Dermot to leave the studio.
She said: "You're fired. But don't worry, I've found you a new job across the road at a cat cafe." Dermot was a notable absentee as they returned to the studio after the ad break as he joined This Morning vet, Dr Scott Miller, at an animal shelter nearby to the show's studio.
Alison said: "Welcome back everyone. Isn't this nice just me, alone on my own. I have been stood up this morning. Dermot has swapped me for a feline companion."
The segment was in response to how animal shelters have reported huge rises in the number of cats being abandoned as owners have been unable to afford them throughout the cost-of-living crisis. Dermot later returned to the studio and Alison revealed at the end of the show she would be back in the hosting seat from Monday.
She said: "Guess what, I'm going to be hosting. Monday, 10 o'clock, see you there!"
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