An ITV insider who has worked closely with Richard Madeley for years has finally lifted the lid on what the Good Morning Britain host is really like when the cameras stop rolling.
Dr Hilary Jones, 72, the health editor who has appeared in a staggering 275 episodes of the ITV breakfast show, revealed that Richard is “very knowledgeable, approachable, and easy to talk to” off set.
The GP, who has become a familiar face across daytime television — from This Morning to Loose Women and Lorraine — explained that Madeley will “talk to everybody and anybody,” showing a different side to the man many only see in his sometimes controversial on-air persona.
The pair’s working relationship has grown close over the years, with Richard even writing a quote for Dr Hilary’s most recent novel, Under Darkening Skies. But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. In 2021, they clashed live on-air over Covid lockdown restrictions.
Richard, who mockingly referred to government health chiefs Sir Patrick Vallance and Chris Witty as “The Chuckle Brothers,” argued that vaccines had already reduced the risks of hospitalisation and death. Dr Hilary strongly disagreed, warning: “We’re looking at rising cases… still only 75% of people had their first jab and just over half their second. That leaves many unprotected against a nasty variant.”
While Dr Hilary may praise Richard behind the scenes, viewers of GMB haven’t been so kind in recent weeks. Fans slammed both Richard, 69, and co-host Kate Garraway, 58, accusing them of being “painful to watch” due to their constant habit of talking over each other.
On social media, one frustrated viewer fumed: “Richard and Kate talking over each other – awkward lol.” Another said: “Why are Richard and Kate always over-talking each other? So annoying!”
Some critics felt Richard was particularly guilty: “He’s so irritating. Constantly interrupts Kate. Never lets her finish a sentence.” Another added: “Does Richard think he’s superior? He needs to pipe down.”
Others suggested the tension hinted at something deeper: “I get the feeling Kate and Richard don’t actually like each other. It’s always a battle for who talks first.”
Despite the backlash, Richard and Kate powered through a packed show that included an interview with actor Martin Shaw, 80, about his decision to turn down the role of James Bond. They were also joined by weather presenter Laura Tobin and reporter Marverine Cole, as well as broadcaster Aasmah Mir, 53, to discuss the latest Celebrity MasterChef scandal, following the sacking of presenters John Torode, 59, and Gregg Wallace, 60.
With rumours swirling, fans are left wondering: is Richard’s off-screen charm enough to silence his growing number of on-screen critics?
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
