This Morning's Alison Hammond takes break from ITV show for new role

Alison Hammond is set to take a break from her presenting duties on ITV's This Morning, as she embarks on a new theatrical adventure. The beloved host shared the news with viewers at the conclusion of Friday's episode.

While co-hosting with Dermot O'Leary, the show wrapped up with Dermot announcing that Alison was "off to panto!" to which she joyfully responded: "See you in January. Happy Christmas."

Alison then turned to Dermot, declaring: "I love you!" before embracing him in a warm hug as the show ended. Alison is gearing up for a stint in pantomime, where she will dazzle audiences alongside Danny Mac in Peter Pan at the Birmingham Hippodrome, in her hometown.

With regular hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard seemingly starting their festive hiatus, Dermot also let slip that he'll be returning to our screens on Monday, December 16, this time joined by Josie Gibson, who has been notably absent from the show recently.

Dermot teased: "Monday I'll be back with Josie and we'll be going behind the scenes on the new Wallace and Grommit," reports the Mirror.

Speculation had been rife among This Morning fans regarding Josie's disappearance from the usual presenter lineup. However, it appears other commitments have kept her from the ITV couch.

Speaking to the Express last September, Josie disclosed that she would be taking a break from the show to pursue an independent project with Channel 5, delving into the opulent world of luxury travel.

She confirmed that despite taking a brief hiatus, she has a considerable workload lined up and emphasised her enduring connection with This Morning.

Josie conveyed her thanks to the show, stating: "I'm very grateful for This Morning and everything they've helped me with because they grew me as a presenter."

This Morning is on ITV1 weekdays at 10am and ITVX