Ranvir Singh was notably absent from ITV's Lorraine on Friday, May 9, 2025, as she fell ill just hours before the show aired. In an unexpected twist, Andi Peters stepped in to host the popular morning program, delivering heartfelt wishes to Ranvir as he took the helm.
Andi, who is usually seen hosting competition segments across ITV's daytime programming, humorously addressed the audience saying, "First thing's first, I've just got to say get well soon to Ranvir, who can't be here today. Which is why they've drafted in a man in a bright orange shirt just to make sure you're awake this morning! Get well soon Ranvir, we send you all of our love." His light-hearted approach was well received, though the absence of the usual hosts raised eyebrows among viewers.
This shake-up comes as Lorraine Kelly, the show's regular presenter, is currently on leave following a surgical procedure to remove her ovaries. Lorraine, 65, had informed her fans via social media that she was undergoing the surgery as a preventative measure after feeling unwell. "Just wanted to let you know that I'm having a wee procedure today," she wrote. "I've not been feeling all that well for a little while, so I had some scans and tests, and I have to have my ovaries and my tubes taken out. It's purely preventative, it's going to be with keyhole surgery, which is incredible. I'm being very well looked after and I'll obviously see you really soon," she assured her followers.
In Lorraine's absence, the show has seen several guest hosts, including Christine Lampard and Sian Welby, who filled in earlier this week. Christine hosted a special VE Day episode on Thursday, May 8, while Sian took over on Monday, May 5.
On the Tuesday before her surgery, Ranvir had hosted the show and engaged with 98-year-old Joy Trew, who shared her experiences in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force during World War II. The segment was touching, especially as Joy received a certificate from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with a commemorative badge. Ranvir's compassionate response to Joy's emotional moment was praised online, showcasing her talent for connecting with guests.
Andi Peters' unexpected hosting duties on Friday included interviews with singer Calum Scott and fashion guru Mark Heyes, who provided viewers with summer style tips. Additionally, Andi discussed the Royal Family's VE Day festivities with expert Russell Myers and addressed the topic of severing ties with toxic friendships. The show concluded with Glynis Barber, who shared skincare secrets with the audience.
While Andi's performance was met with mixed reactions on social media, many viewers expressed their support. Some commented on X (formerly Twitter), with one user joking, "Lorraine, Ranvir, Christine said no, so let’s get the competition bloke in #Lorraine." Others were more enthusiastic, with fans praising Andi's hosting style. One viewer remarked, "Andi is actually really good at this! #Lorraine," while another wrote, "What a breath of fresh air Andi Peters is, he’s made this show come alive. I think it’s time for Lorraine to retire and hand over to Andi."
Despite the humor and lightheartedness, the change in hosts highlights the challenges faced by live television programs when unexpected circumstances arise. The audience's familiarity with Lorraine's style and presence makes her absence all the more noticeable.
As for Lorraine Kelly, she has kept her fans updated on her recovery through Instagram, where she shared a photo of herself smiling alongside the medical staff who cared for her at Heatherwood Hospital. "Huge thanks to these kind, caring, gorgeous professionals who took care of me at @heatherwoodhospital – back home now and following doctors’ orders to rest up," she wrote, expressing gratitude to her surgeon, Mr. Ahmed Rafaat.
While it remains unclear when Lorraine will return to her hosting duties, fans are eagerly awaiting her comeback. In the meantime, Andi Peters has proven to be a capable stand-in, navigating the challenges of hosting with a blend of humor and charm.
As the ITV morning show continues to adapt to the absence of its regular hosts, viewers are reminded of the unpredictability of live television and the resilience of its presenters. With the support of fans and colleagues alike, both Ranvir and Lorraine are expected to make a full recovery and return to their beloved roles.
