ITV is shaking things up in 2026, and the changes are already making waves! Budget cuts have forced the network to make some significant adjustments to its daytime schedule, and the impact is being felt across the board.
The new schedule officially launched today, and it comes after a restructuring that resulted in over 200 job losses behind the scenes.
Last May, there was an announcement that Good Morning Britain would be extended by 30 minutes. This means the show now starts at 6:00 AM and runs until 9:30 AM.
But here's where it gets controversial... This extension has come at a cost. Lorraine, the self-titled show hosted by Lorraine Kelly, has been cut short by 30 minutes. Viewers will now need to tune in at 9:30 AM, with the show ending when This Morning begins at 10:00 AM.
This Morning remains untouched by the changes and will continue its usual broadcast until 12:30 PM.
And this is the part most people miss... Loose Women's airtime remains unchanged, but the show will now only be broadcast for 30 weeks of the year.
These alterations are a direct result of ITV's budget cuts, which have also led to the loss of 220 jobs within the daytime TV staff.
In a related move, Good Morning Britain, This Morning, and Loose Women have found a new home. Since 2018, they were housed at the BBC's London Television Centre, but now, GMB will broadcast from the ITN Studios in Central London, while the other ITV daytime shows will be filmed at The H Club in Covent Garden.
ITV Boss Kevin Lygo explained the rationale behind these changes earlier in the year, stating that daytime programming is crucial and these adjustments would allow the network to continue delivering the news, discussions, and debates viewers love. He also emphasized the aim to generate savings that would be reinvested in other genres. Furthermore, he highlighted the opportunity to consolidate news operations and expand national, international, and regional news coverage.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: The departure from the Television Centre was particularly emotional. A source revealed that the GMB presenters and crew were left in tears as they said goodbye to their home. Many staff members, some with years of experience working on ITV Daytime shows, found it difficult to say goodbye. The final broadcast from Television Centre was a very emotional one, with everyone gathering to toast the shows and the ITV family.
What do you think about these changes? Do you agree with the decisions ITV has made, or do you have a different perspective? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
