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Viewer Backlash Over Good Morning Britain’s Pope Francis Death Announcement
Good Morning Britain (GMB) faced viewer criticism following the broadcast of the announcement of Pope Francis’s death. The ITV programme interrupted its sister show, Lorraine, hosted by Christine Lampard, on Monday, April 21st, to deliver the breaking news, presented by Ranvir Singh.
Viewers Criticize Ranvir Singh’s On-Air Appearance
Ranvir Singh, alongside co-host Richard Madeley, returned to screens to present the somber news. The presenter had changed outfits, adding a black jacket over a white floral dress. However, ITV viewers reacted negatively to the change of attire, with many taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to voice their disapproval. Online commentators described her jacket as “ill-fitting” and “unprofessional,” with numerous viewers noting the blazer appeared too small and clashed with the summer dress. Some speculated the jacket may have belonged to her colleague, Richard Madeley.
Social Media Reactions to Presenter’s Attire
- One user on X commented on the perceived lack of professionalism: “Very unprofessional. Would’ve been better if you’d just gone to the ITV newsroom rather than GMB and see Ranvir in a clearly ill-fitting jacket loaned to her by Richard. Especially with such breaking news.”
- Another viewer echoed this sentiment, writing, “They put Ranvir in one of Richard’s suit jackets to read the Pope has died on @gmb.”
- A third post remarked on the perceived overreaction: “Bit OTT making Ranvir wear a black jacket #gmb.”
Lorraine Interrupted for Breaking News
The announcement of Pope Francis’s death abruptly halted Lorraine. Christine Lampard was in the middle of an interview with Pilgrimage star Harry Clark when she paused the segment to share the developing story. Lampard informed viewers that the Pope had passed away at the age of 88, citing Cardinal Kevin Ferrell’s announcement at approximately 7:30 am. Lorraine was immediately taken off air, and the broadcast transitioned to Good Morning Britain for further coverage with Ranvir Singh and Richard Madeley.
Good Morning Britain Announces Vatican Statement
Upon taking over the broadcast, Ranvir Singh addressed viewers, stating, “Christine, thank you so much. As you say, we do have some breaking news from Rome. The Vatican has just announced the death of Pope Francis.” Richard Madeley then proceeded to read the official statement released by Cardinal Kevin Ferrell.
Full Vatican Statement on Pope Francis’s Death
The statement from Cardinal Kevin Ferrell read:
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“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
“At 7.35am, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the one and Triune God.”
Pope Francis’s Recent Health Issues and Celebrity Tributes
Prior to his death, Pope Francis had experienced several health concerns, including a recent hospitalisation in February for bronchitis treatment at the Gemelli hospital in Rome.
Celebrity Condolences Following Pope’s Death
Following the news of his passing, numerous celebrities publicly shared their tributes. On Easter Monday, figures including Whoopi Goldberg, Eva Longoria, and Antonio Banderas conveyed their condolences.
Whoopi Goldberg shared a personal reflection, posting an image of herself with Pope Francis and writing: “He was the closest in a long time that seemed to remember that Christ’s love enveloped believer and non-believer. He felt more like Pope John XXIII who made belief real. Sail on Pope Francis with your love of humanity & laughter.”
Antonio Banderas, the Spanish actor, also expressed his sorrow, stating: “Pope Francisco has died – a man who, at the head of the Catholic Church, showed kindness, love, and mercy to the neediest people @franciscus #RIP #DEP.”