'Lorraine' and 'This Morning' fans have been left fuming after the World Cup replaced the two shows.
Lorraine and This Morning fans have been left fuming after the World Cup replaced the two shows
Some have taken to Twitter to vent their frustrations at ITV after weekday programmes 'Lorraine', which usually starts at 9am and is presented by Lorraine Kelly, and 'This Morning', which airs at 10am, were both bumped off the schedule on Tuesday (22.11.22) for the Argentina vs Saudi Arabia match, coverage for which began at 9am live from Qatar.
One viewer wrote on Twitter: "@ITV not everyone is interested in the world Cup, putting it on at 9am and taking morning TV off is disgusting, stick it on ITV2. Bet your ratings are through the roof with this match....not!! #Lorraine #ThisMorning (sic)"
Another posted: "What the f++ is going on with the TV today. Where hell is Lorraine This morning. Does ITV think suicidal people who have no access to fancy Netflix or catch-up TV want there routines messed up to watch instead a bunch of rich men kicking a ball around a field. NO NO NO NO NO (sic)"
While 'Good Morning Britain' aired as usual until 9am, 'Loose Women' will also not be on today as part of the World Cup schedule changes, due to coverage of Denmark vs Tunisia.
Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, said: "The World Cup is now in focus and we’re delighted to be able to bring viewers coverage of what promises to be some of the standout games of the tournament across ITV channels and our new free streaming service ITVX, which launches this autumn.
"We’re kicking-off with the opening match and will show England’s group stage match against the USA as well as games involving tournament favourites such as Brazil, France, Argentina, Spain and the Netherlands. Plus, we have picks one and two of the round of 16 and pick one of the quarter-finals.
"The ITV Sport team is now looking forward to bringing viewers the very best of the first winter World Cup."
On Monday's (21.11.22) 'This Morning', co-hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby revealed to viewers that the show won't air until Friday (25.11.22).
Phil said: "Right, the World Cup is on ITV for the next few mornings so Alison [Hammond] and Dermot [O'Leary] will be with you on Friday, we will see you next week.
Holly added: "All that's left to say is good luck England, good luck Wales and we'll see you next week."
Some football fans are boycotting the World Cup due it taking place in Qatar, which has been the subject of international condemnation over its human rights record, including criminalisation of homosexuality.