Josie Gibson stepped in alongside Dermot O’Leary for the December 15 episode of the ITV show
Emma Willis had to withdraw from presenting This Morning on Monday (December 15) after falling ill.
The edition of the ITV programme was fronted by Dermot O’Leary and Josie Gibson. Yet, as the show commenced, Dermot informed the audience that TV star Emma had been scheduled to co-host alongside him but couldn’t attend due to being unwell. The presenter was replaced by Josie, reports Wales Online.
Launching the programme, Dermot revealed: “Full disclosure, Emma Willis was supposed to be in this week. Emma is a little bit poorly. So we are sending her a big love.”
He announced to viewers: “Look who’s back with me. It’s only Miss Josephine Gibson!”
“Thanks for having me, Dermot,” she responded.
Josie stepped in to replace Emma
The broadcast kicked off with footage of youngsters performing a Christmas carol, with Dermot revealing they were pupils from the primary school Emma had attended as a youngster.
“That was Emma’s primary school,” he shared.
“Oh, Emma, we hope you get well soon. We are missing you,” Josie remarked. “Yeah, big love, Emma,” Dermot echoed.
Emma couldn’t host due to illness(Image: ITV)
This Morning’s usual presenters are Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard, who front the show Monday to Thursday, whilst Dermot and Alison Hammond take the helm on Fridays. Throughout holiday periods, they are typically substituted by a revolving cast of guest hosts, including Josie, Emma, and Rochelle Humes.
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Emma has had quite a whirlwind of a week, with the recent announcement that she will be launching a new live programme on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds from January 2026. This follows Zoe Ball’s decision to step down from her show.
Emma has a new radio role(Image: Instagram)
Every Saturday lunchtime, between 1pm and 3pm, the TV personality will host a show featuring conversations with special guests and listeners.
“I’m a huge fan of Radio 2, so I’m absolutely chuffed to be joining the family – and it’s a real honour to follow in the huge footsteps Zoe leaves behind, who’s someone I admire and adore,” she expressed.
“I’m very much looking forward to spending my Saturday lunchtimes with the Radio 2 audience, and I’ll happily be the filling to a Romesh (Ranganathan) and Rylan sandwich!”
This Morning airs on ITV from 10am on weekdays.
