By Alexis Moore, Senior TV Reporter

In a bombshell revelation that has left fans stunned and media insiders reeling, ITV is reportedly undergoing a major upheaval, with Lorraine Kelly seemingly being “pushed aside” in favor of a rising star amidst a wave of mass layoffs at the network. The shake-up, which has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment world and ITV staff, is raising serious questions about the future of the network and its long-standing talent.

For years, Lorraine Kelly has been a staple of ITV’s morning programming, with her iconic talk show, Lorraine, dominating the ratings and earning her a loyal fanbase. However, in a move that has blindsided both Lorraine and her viewers, ITV executives are allegedly planning to replace her with a younger, rising star. The news comes amid a broader restructuring at ITV, which is also reportedly laying off a significant portion of its workforce.

THE SHOCKING MOVE: LORRAINE ‘PUSHED ASIDE’

Sources close to ITV have revealed that Lorraine Kelly, one of the UK’s most beloved TV personalities, was left in the dark about the decision to replace her. After years of anchoring Lorraine, the long-running show that has become synonymous with her name, Lorraine was reportedly told that a new direction was being pursued for the morning slot.

“Lorraine had no idea this was coming,” said a source close to the star. “She’s been a fixture on ITV for over two decades, and to be told that she’s being replaced—especially after everything she’s done for the network—is a complete shock. She’s devastated.”

While ITV has not officially confirmed the decision, insiders say that ITV bosses have already tapped a rising star to take over Lorraine’s timeslot. The new face of the show is reportedly a younger talent, which has further fueled the speculation that the network is attempting to rebrand itself with a fresh, modern look aimed at attracting a younger demographic.

THE RISING STAR: WHO IS THE NEW FACE OF ITV?

Although the identity of the new host has yet to be officially revealed, several sources have suggested that ITV is looking to bring in someone who embodies a new energy and appeal to a younger audience. Whispers around the industry have pointed to Olivia Hamilton, a young presenter who has been making waves on various ITV projects. Hamilton, known for her engaging personality and strong social media presence, is reportedly in talks to take over Lorraine’s iconic slot.

“Olivia is a rising star, and she has a big following among the younger audience ITV is trying to target,” said an ITV insider. “She’s got the energy, the looks, and the presence to take Lorraine in a new direction. ITV is betting on her to bring in fresh viewers and revitalize the morning slot.”

Fans of Lorraine are already divided, with many expressing their shock and disappointment over the decision to replace the beloved host. For years, Lorraine Kelly’s warmth and relatable demeanor have made her a household name, and her departure has left fans wondering if this is the end of an era for ITV’s morning programming.

THE MASS LAYOFFS: WHAT’S REALLY GOING ON AT ITV?

The decision to replace Lorraine Kelly is only part of a broader restructuring at ITV that is expected to involve a significant number of layoffs. Sources inside the network confirm that several high-ranking staff members and on-air personalities are set to be let go as ITV continues to face mounting pressure to modernize its content and appeal to a younger, more diverse audience.

“ITV is under a lot of pressure,” said a former ITV executive. “They’ve been facing declining ratings, and there’s a growing need to appeal to a younger generation. But these layoffs are causing chaos internally. People are upset, and morale is low. It’s not just Lorraine—there are a lot of good people being let go.”

The layoffs are reportedly affecting both on-air talent and behind-the-scenes staff, with veteran producers, editors, and technical crew all feeling the effects of the cost-cutting measures. While ITV has made no official comment on the scale of the layoffs, the impact on the network is expected to be significant.

FANS REACT: OUTRAGE OVER LORRAINE’S REPLACEMENT

Viewers of Lorraine have taken to social media to express their shock and dismay over the potential replacement of the beloved host. Many fans are vocal about their loyalty to Lorraine and their frustration with ITV’s apparent shift in direction.

“I’ve been watching Lorraine for years, and I can’t believe they’re replacing her,” said one Twitter user. “She’s part of the fabric of ITV. I don’t know if I’ll watch anymore.”

Another fan commented: “ITV has made a huge mistake. Lorraine’s warmth and authenticity are irreplaceable. I’m so upset by this.”

The backlash has been swift, and ITV may be facing a public relations nightmare as the network grapples with the fallout from the announcement.

ITV’S STRATEGY: A NEW ERA FOR MORNING TELEVISION?

According to ITV executives, the shake-up is part of the network’s larger strategy to modernize its programming and appeal to a younger audience. With Lorraine now at the center of this controversy, it’s clear that ITV is betting on change in order to secure its future in an increasingly competitive television market.

“ITV is looking to attract younger viewers, and they see this as a way to refresh the morning lineup,” said a source. “But with the backlash over Lorraine’s exit, ITV may have miscalculated.”

As the dust settles, it remains to be seen whether the new direction will pay off or backfire, especially given the strong emotional ties that viewers have to the show’s original format.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ITV?

The future of Lorraine and ITV’s morning lineup is uncertain, with many wondering whether the new changes will breathe life into the network or alienate its loyal audience. The coming weeks will be critical as ITV navigates the backlash from Lorraine’s departure and the growing dissatisfaction surrounding the layoffs.

📰 More Inside Today’s Edition:

THE RISE OF YOUNGER TV STARS: How ITV is shifting to target a new audience
INSIDE THE LOOSE WOMEN SHAKE-UP: More ITV talent changes on the horizon?
THE FUTURE OF DAYTIME TV: Can ITV’s strategy succeed?

📸 EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS OF LORRAINE AND ITV TALENT — PAGE A6

The Daily Entertainment — Where TV drama meets behind-the-scenes drama.