Esther McVey's Return to Good Morning Britain Sparks Mixed Reactions on Social Media Esther McVey’s recent comeback to Good Morning Britain has generated a wave of mixed reactions from viewers. Many fans took to social media platforms to express their opinions, showcasing a diverse range of sentiments regarding her return to the show.
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The popular breakfast show, Good Morning Britain, has recently found itself at the center of viewer discontent. On January 26, 2026, fans quickly voiced their frustrations regarding the return of political analyst Esther McVey. Hosted by Susanna Reid and Ed Balls, the episode aimed to cover significant news stories from across the UK and beyond.
Joining the hosts was Laura Tobin, who provided essential weather updates, while Kate Garraway managed other news segments. As the show progressed, Reid and Balls invited two political analysts to evaluate the day’s leading headlines.
Political dynamics and viewer responses
Among the analysts was the well-known Kevin Maguire, who appeared alongside McVey, marking her return to ITV following a recent restructuring of daytime programming. This comeback is noteworthy as McVey had previously co-hosted GMTV with Eamonn Holmes and has also presented various programs for Channel 4 and the BBC.
During her segment, McVey addressed the controversial candidacy scenario involving Andy Burnham, who is rumored to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Prime Minister position. When prompted by Balls about a potential shift to the Reform party, McVey was quick to refute the idea, asserting, “I was never on the list. People love to do betting and polling and what have you. No, I never was.”
Despite the intent to provide insightful analysis, many viewers took to social media platforms to express their dissatisfaction with McVey’s presence on the show. Comments flooded in on X (formerly Twitter), with one viewer stating, “Really don’t want to be waking up and seeing McVey on GMB. How to lose viewers,” while another echoed, “Where is Andrew Pierce? I hope McVey is not on here all week!”
Others expressed a sense of nostalgia for the previous analyst, with remarks such as, “If Esther McVey is a new regular then that’s me ditching this program for good.” This widespread discontent raises questions about the direction of the show and its ability to retain its audience.
A solemn announcement interrupts the broadcast
In a contrasting segment, Good Morning Britain took a somber turn when Kate Garraway announced the passing of a national hero. During the January 26 broadcast, she shared the heartbreaking news of Donald Butt, a revered D-Day veteran who passed away at the age of 100. Butt was among the last surviving D-Day heroes and had recently received the prestigious Légion d’honneur for his service.
Garraway conveyed the family’s sentiments, noting, “One of Britain’s last surviving D-Day veterans and the most recent recipient of the Légion d’honneur has died at the age of 100.” The announcement was met with an outpouring of tributes online, with many viewers paying their respects to Butt and honoring his legacy.
Legacy of a war hero
In a pre-recorded segment, correspondent Jay Akbar detailed Butt’s remarkable life, stating, “At the end of a life filled with bravery and sacrifice, Donald Butt was rewarded with the final thing his heart desired.” This touching tribute highlighted Butt’s humility and dedication, as he had expressed a lifelong desire to receive the Légion d’honneur.
Butt’s daughter remarked, “Things are in place to honor dad in Normandy in June this year and we hope he will be remembered as a humble, funny, thoughtful man.” As viewers processed the dual narratives of political discourse and heartfelt remembrance, it became evident that Good Morning Britain continues to navigate the complexities of modern broadcasting.
Joining the hosts was Laura Tobin, who provided essential weather updates, while Kate Garraway managed other news segments. As the show progressed, Reid and Balls invited two political analysts to evaluate the day’s leading headlines.0
