Georgina Burnett, a presenter on ITV's flagship breakfast program "This Morning," has come under fire for an April Fool's prank that many deemed insensitive. On April 1, 2025, the 46-year-old shared a black-and-white Instagram photo where she appeared to cradle her stomach, suggesting a pregnancy. The post, captioned simply "News!", was soon met with a wave of criticism from her followers, who found the joke "deeply hurtful" given the sensitive nature of pregnancy and fertility issues.
Burnett, who is also known for her expertise in home improvement and upcycling, quickly found herself in hot water as fans reacted strongly. One user commented, "Not funny if this is an April Fool's joke," while another called her actions "embarrassing." Many followers pointed out the date and questioned the appropriateness of such a prank, especially considering the struggles that many women face with infertility. One particularly poignant comment read, "This is deeply hurtful to the huge number of women suffering with infertility. Did you know 1/4 of pregnancies end in miscarriage and 1/6 of couples have trouble falling pregnant? You would do well to consider this before making 'jokes' about such sensitive topics in the future."
In response to the backlash, Burnett attempted to clarify her intentions by replying to some comments with a wink emoji, indicating that it was indeed a joke. However, as the negative comments continued to pour in, she deleted the post and replaced it with a heartfelt tribute to her cat, Dexter, wishing him a happy birthday and sharing that he had turned 13. In the new post, she wrote, "News... my first bundle of joy became a teenager today! Happy birthday Dexter – dreamies for tea! X." This pivot from a controversial joke to a lighthearted message about her pet did little to quell the criticism, as some followers still expressed their disapproval.
Burnett's prank has drawn comparisons to similar incidents in the past. Notably, in 2022, fellow celebrity Kerry Katona faced backlash for a fake pregnancy announcement that was also perceived as tone-deaf. Katona later apologized, explaining that her post was intended for close friends and not meant for public viewing. This precedent raises questions about the appropriateness of pregnancy-related pranks, especially on a day known for its light-hearted trickery.
Prior to this incident, Burnett had shared her own personal challenges, including her separation from her husband, Andy Flawn, in early 2023 after more than 20 years of marriage. In a heartfelt post on Valentine's Day, she opened up about her struggles, stating, "It’s time for me to share some personal news for a change. Something I’ve been dealing with this past year is my marriage splitting up. Never easy for anyone, especially the kids, but don’t worry, I’m not alone today and I’m excited about my next, happier chapter." Her focus on moving forward and embracing her role as a single mother has resonated with many fans, adding a layer of complexity to her recent prank.
The backlash against Burnett's joke highlights a growing awareness and sensitivity surrounding issues of fertility and pregnancy loss. Organizations like the charity Tommy's have emphasized the emotional toll that such jokes can take on those who have experienced pregnancy complications or loss. In a statement released just before April Fool's Day, they cautioned against the potential harm of fake pregnancy announcements, reminding the public that for many, these topics are not a source of humor but rather deep-seated pain.
Despite the criticism, some of Burnett's followers did engage with her prank in a more positive light, commenting with playful banter and jokes. One user quipped, "You're going to be a Michael Jackson impressionist. Shamon!" while others expressed relief at realizing it was an April Fool's joke before getting too caught up in the moment. This mix of reactions illustrates the fine line that public figures must walk when attempting humor, especially regarding sensitive topics.
As Georgina Burnett navigates the fallout from her April Fool's joke, it serves as a reminder of the power of social media and the responsibility that comes with it. In an age where every post can spark widespread discussion, celebrities must be mindful of the potential implications of their words and actions. While humor can be a valuable tool for connection, it can also backfire, particularly when it touches on subjects that many find deeply personal.
Going forward, Burnett may need to reassess her approach to social media and consider the broader impact of her posts. As she continues to share her life with her followers, balancing her personal experiences with the expectations of her audience will be crucial. The incident also opens up a dialogue about the appropriateness of pranks, particularly those that involve sensitive topics, and the need for empathy in humor.
