Latest news with #EdBalls
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Livid Good Morning Britain viewers call for 'smug' presenter to be investigated by Ofcom as they brand him 'a total embarrassment' and 'truly appalling'
Good Morning Britain viewers called for a presenter to be investigated by Ofcom as he hosted Tuesday's instalment of the ITV show. The latest episode of the programme saw Kate Garraway, 58, and Ed Balls, 58, return to our screens to discuss the latest headlines and newsworthy topics. During one segment the pair discussed the small boat crisis with Michael Gove, 57, and Kevin Maguire, 64. And some think that Ed shouldn't be involved in political interviews when his wife, Yvette Cooper, 56, is the Home Secretary. Some took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their thoughts. 'Ed Balls 'grilling' a Labour MP when you're wife's the Home Secretary should be investigated by OFCOM. It's not right...' 'Smug Ed Balls, whose wife is chief of command for protecting the public in this country, should pipe down.' 'I simply cannot stand Ed Balls, he is so smug and has a clear conflict of interest because his wife is a cabinet member (and not a good one either). His smug smile is so annoying!' 'Total embarrassment listening to #GMB this morning nearly every story mentioned by the panel is the actual responsibility of the Home just happens to be 'Mrs Ed Balls', the pointlessness of this 'chat' is truly appalling.' 'Ed Balls. Hopeless. Why is he still on my TV.#GMB.' 'Ed Balls mocking anyone's political f**k up's is a choice, considering how utterly useless and incompetent his Mrs is.' Kevin is usually joined by Andrew Pierce on the show, but Michael stepped in to take part in the discussions instead. And many took to social media to say how they weren't a huge fan of this choice either. '#GMB You've got to be joking? Bye.' Many rushed to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their thoughts over Ed Balls on GMB on Tuesday Others took to the social media platform to share their thoughts on Michael Gove (pictured) 'Just switched TV onto GMB, seen Michael Gove talking, instant switch over to another channel, get rid of him.' 'Is it just me or is Gove getting way more talking time than Mcguire?' While another said: 'I'm actually surprised at how impressed I've been with Michael Gove these past couple of mornings.' It comes after another Good Morning Britain host has announced an extended break from the ITV show in a fresh ITV presenter shake-up. On Thursday's episode of the show last week Richard Madeley, 69, and Kate Garraway, 58, presented the programme. At the end of the instalment, Richard said: 'Right. I'm off for three weeks. I'll see you in three weeks time!' A shocked Kate asked: 'Are you?!' 'Yes,' Richard replied. Kate told him: 'Have a lovely holiday! You haven't rebelled, you haven't been suspended...' Another Good Morning Britain host has announced an extended break from the ITV show in a fresh ITV presenter shake-up Richard giggled and said: 'No...' He continued: 'No I haven't had the whip taken away.' The week prior, Susanna Reid, 54, explained to viewers that she was taking her 'holidays' as the show wrapped. Just before handing over to Lorraine, Susanna said she was now officially on leave from the programme. The host - who is the main anchor of the show - did not say the exact date she'd return to screens, but stipulated that it would be at 'term time', likely meaning around the start of September. She said: 'I am off on my holidays but I will see you at the star of the new term.' It's unclear who will replace Susanna and co-host the show in her absence from Monday to Thursdays. During the latest episode of the long-running show, Susanna Reid told viewers she was taking her 'holidays' as the show wrapped However, Richard Madeley jokingly confirmed he isn't going anywhere as he waved in her face following the news, saying: 'I am still here!' Richard and Susanna's break comes amid a period of change for the breakfast programme ahead of its behind-the-scenes shakeup next year as part of ITV budget cuts. Lorraine and Loose Women face the brunt of the cuts, with GMB's programme to be merged with ITN, who produce ITV News. Meanwhile, the Good Morning Britain has been slammed after making a controversial move to cut costs even more. Execs have axed its US office for the first time in the award-winning show's history. The Sun reported how the move means Good Morning Britain will no longer have a dedicated team across the pond to cover big stories across current affairs and entertainment. A source told the publication how the show, which is anchored by Susanna Reid and launched in 2014, will likely use ITN's main news hub in the US for reports. They said: 'They have completely axed their American operation, with the intensity of the news cycle in the US as it is - especially now, with a president who is making headlines daily. 'How does that make any sense? 'These cuts are a disaster in the making. The way they have gone about all of this is messy and it is devastating for us all.' The source added it was a 'shortsighted' move and a 'brazen pivot away from journalism' that will result in 'genuine, good quality people' leaving the show. However, a spokesperson for ITV said: 'ITV is currently in consultation over proposed changes and no final decisions have been made on redundancies. 'ITV News has a significant presence across North America and its award winning bureau will continue to provide Viewers with trusted international news.' Last year Susanna went clubbing with her grown-up sons Sam, 22, Finn, 21, and 19-year-old Jack during her holidays. In an interview with Woman & Home, she admitted: 'I'm not really a pub-goer, but I go clubbing. 'I went clubbing with them during the day and had the most amazing time. I stopped drinking in 2018 and I'm now predominantly teetotal. 'I have a Buck's Fizz on Christmas Day, I had half a glass of champagne on my mum's birthday and I have a drink once every couple of months – including a couple in Ibiza – but I don't have pints at the pub like I did in my 20s.'
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Mirror
GMB viewers point out major issue as Ed Balls in furious clash with Feargal Sharkey
Good Morning Britain presenters Ed Balls and Kate Garraway welcomed campaigner Feargal Sharkey onto the show as they discussed the new report from the Independent Water Commission Ed Balls from Good Morning Britain had a heated exchange with Feargal Sharkey following the recent review of the water sector. On Monday (July 21), ITV news correspondent Louisa James discussed the new report from the Independent Water Commission, as the government reveals its plans to revamp the sector and introduce a stronger complaints watchdog. These new entities would take over from Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate, and the criticised regulator for a new integrated regular in England, merging the functions of Ofwat and assuming the water-related responsibilities from the Environment Agency and Natural England. To gain another perspective on the latest development, the 58 year old presenter and his co-host Kate Garraway invited campaigner Feargal Sharkey onto the show. The Irishman quickly expressed his disapproval of the new plans in a fiery on-air discussion. Ed started by asking: "Is it all for the birds if they don't renationalise and take it into public control, or do you think that some of the things in here can make a difference and improve things somewhat, even if they don't go as far as you'd like?" At this point, the musician made his views clear on the new development, calling for the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural affairs Steve Reed to step down, reports the Express. He started: "[Sir John Cunliffe, the Independent Water Commissioner] and I agree, he cast the gates of Ofwat and the Environment Agency [EA], we're in total agreement. There are two failed organisations. But then he says he wants to abolish Ofwat. "Well, I don't know how you can have that conversation without adding the Environment Agency to that list, and then we have to think of the role the ministers have had in all this for 35 years, because the board of Ofwat, the board of the EA were personally appointed by the Secretary of State for the environment. "Both of those organisations operate under guidance issued by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Steve Reed. The day he came to office, he could have sacked both those boards and reissued the guidance and ordered both those organisations to proactively enforce the law. "I'm afraid for Jon because I think there are some good things in what he said, but at the heart of this, he believes this is an issue of public trust, and for me that blatantly ignores that this is an issue about corporate greed, manipulation, profiteering, financial engineering, £74billion of debt and £84billion of dividends that these companies have ramraided." Kate then questioned the activist about who would foot the bill to fix the sector and get the water companies back on track, to which he disclosed: "You're paying for it anyway, this is the curious thing. I'm quoting the government this morning. there's £104billion private sector investment, but I'm challenging them right now. "There is no private sector investment. Shareholders are not putting their hands in their pockets for that money, that's why your bills have just gone up 30,40,50%. The chief executive for Northumberland Water just blew the gaffe in parliament two months ago. "Now 85% of that money is coming from the bill increases. In the short term, it's coming out of our bank accounts, and we're certainly going to pay for it in the long term." He wrapped up: "I think the thing has become an utter shambles. The idea that on Friday (July ) it was announced that 65% increase in serious pollution incidents. "There is no pollution control anymore in this country, and I think Steve has got to reflect very carefully on the role he's played in the last 12 months. I think he should go." It wasn't long before supporters flocked to X - formerly known as Twitter - to voice their opinions online, with many rallying behind The Undertones frontman. One user wrote: "Feargal is totally right in all he says. This report could be three feet thick, it won't change a thing. We, the public, will still bear the cost. The bosses and shareholders will still get rich on us." Another concurred: "Feargal is right that there are ways of changing the status without it costing anything, but that means upsetting a lot of wealthy folk - which governments don't like to do. It is time for the public to take control, as it benefitted the public and councils/ regions over profit." A third chimed in: "It's all true what he says. Nothing will change and sewage dumping has gone up 60% since Steve Reed took control" while a fourth applauded: "What would we do without FEARGAL eg [thumbs up emoji]."
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Coldplay kiss cam duo branded 'stupid' in fiery GMB row with Ed Balls
Good Morning Britain's Ed Balls has made his feelings on the Coldplay kiss cam scandal very clear, with the presenter slamming the Astronomer pair after they were spotted in an embrace during a Coldplay concert. Last week, Astronomer CEO, Andy Byron, was caught with his hands around his HR Chief, Kristin Cabot, on a kiss cam at a Coldplay concert, with the pair quickly hiding form the camera after being broadcast on a big screen at the Boston arena. This morning on Good Morning Britain, its stars were debating whether people have a right to privacy in public places - and presenter Ed Balls found himself in a fiery debate with guest Lewis Oakley. "I feel very sorry for their families, I actually feel very sorry for them. I'm really sad that they've ended up in this situation," Ed said after Lewis defended the couple. "However, he's the Chief Executive of a company who ahs now resigned because he was having what seems to be an illicit affair with one of his employees and they stupidly - in fact, she was the head of HR in the company - stupidly at a concert they were canoodling. "They should have known that if they are there, they could be on camera. It was their fault and they're getting their comeuppance."
The Guardian
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Ed Balls and Yvette Cooper cross the Rubicon – in a canoe: the Stephen Collins cartoon
Ed Balls and Yvette Cooper cross the Rubicon – in a canoe: the Stephen Collins cartoon
Daily Mail
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Tony Christie reveals the very common dementia symptom he dismissed before wife dragged him to doctor - and makes defiant vow
Tony Christine has revealed the very common dementia symptom he dismissed before his wife dragged him to the doctor. The 82-year-old appeared on Thursday's episode of Good Morning Britain to chat to presenters Kate Garraway, 58, and Ed Balls, 58. Back in January 2023, Tony revealed that he had been diagnosed with dementia and was taking medication to slow it down. Since then the singer has been very honest and open about his diagnosis with fans. 'Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types,' according to the NHS. Speaking on GMB, Tony said: 'I think it was about three years ago. All my life, I've been a crossword fanatic. Cryptic crosswords, that was my big hobby. 'Suddenly, I was having problems doing them, and my wife said "Let's go and see a doctor".' Tony met his wife Sue in 1968 and the pair have been married for 56 years. He added: 'They gave me tests and found things on my skull and all this kind of thing. 'They said, "You've got the beginnings of dementia, we can put you onto tablets to stop it getting any worse". 'Which they have.' Speaking about how he deals with the condition, he confessed: 'I've just carried on and I actually just push it to one side. I forget it's there, I don't think about it. 'I just carry on with my life and get on with it.' WHAT IS DEMENTIA? Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of progressive neurological disorders, that is, conditions affecting the brain. There are many different types of dementia, of which Alzheimer's disease is the most common. Some people may have a combination of types of dementia. Regardless of which type is diagnosed, each person will experience their dementia in their own unique way. Dementia is a global concern but it is most often seen in wealthier countries, where people are likely to live into very old age. HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE AFFECTED? The Alzheimer's Society reports there are more than 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK today, of which more than 500,000 have Alzheimer's. It is estimated that the number of people living with dementia in the UK by 2025 will rise to over 1 million. In the US, it's estimated there are 5.5 million Alzheimer's sufferers. A similar percentage rise is expected in the coming years. As a person's age increases, so does the risk of them developing dementia. Rates of diagnosis are improving but many people with dementia are thought to still be undiagnosed. IS THERE A CURE? Currently there is no cure for dementia. But new drugs can slow down its progression and the earlier it is spotted the more effective treatments are. Source: Dementia UK Back in March it was revealed that music legend Tony Christie continues to perform despite his dementia diagnosis, with his wife Sue praising his determination as he tours and records new music. The singer, 81, best known for (Is This the Way to) Amarillo, has released a new album titled A New Life, and is now embarking on a packed touring schedule across the UK and Europe. Sue, who met Tony when she watched him perform at a social club in Yorkshire back in 1967, has now spoken out on her admiration for her husband's resilience. She told The Mirror: 'I am so proud of him. In fact, I am totally in awe. He has the condition and he deals with it really bravely. She added: 'He is just the same person, just a little forgetful.' Despite his diagnosis and the extra help, Tony has maintained his humour and joked to the publication: 'It's just short-term memory that's the problem, like paying the bills.' His son and manager, Sean, added: 'That's how we cope - we use humour, and Dad loves a joke.' It comes after Tony revealed he tries to 'ignore' his dementia diagnosis after vowing to carry on performing despite his health battle. Speaking on Good Morning Britain last year Tony said: 'I actually ignore it. I just carry on and do my thing. 'Obviously, I've got to use my autocue, but I've used an autocue for donkey's years. I'm doing stuff from albums and I can't remember all these lyrics from 40 or 50 years ago so I do use an autocue to help me. 'Otherwise, if I make a mess of a song, the audience lose, not me.' Tony added that he believes performing has helped him during his fight with the condition, saying: 'The doctor said "You're in the music business so you're very lucky, because that's one of the things that helps dementia people." 'The music takes your mind off the things, you don't forget music. You forget people's names and things and lyrics but as soon as music starts you're back. It's memory, you never forget it.' Tony previously detailed the moment his wife Sue spotted the early signs that he had dementia ahead of his diagnosis. The Amarillo hitmaker appeared on Loose Women alongside his wife Sue where they discussed his condition. And the couple told how it was Tony's love of crossword puzzles that brought to their attention that something could be seriously wrong. Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of progressive neurological disorders (those affecting the brain) which impact memory, thinking and behaviour. As host Coleen Nolan asked: 'What were the signs initially?', Tony responded: 'I've been a crossword addict for all my life, basically cryptic [crosswords] and I suddenly started having problems solving and forgetting names. 'And it was my wife Sue that said, 'I think we should go and see a specialist.'' Sue then went on to say how she had spotted changes in her husband before they then sought help. She explained: 'He'd get anxious and cross with himself when he couldn't do the puzzles and I said, 'Look, I think it's time we get you checked out' because he kept saying, 'I'm losing it. I'm losing it!'' Tony then described how he'd undergone a series of tests and scans before being told he had the beginnings of dementia. The performer went on to say that 'lot of people are embarrassed' about dementia, adding that he decided to speak publicly about his condition to show there was nothing to be ashamed of. Meanwhile, Sue told of the moment Tony realised he needed to speak out about his dementia. She explained: 'We went to an Age UK Christmas carol concert and there was a lot of people with dementia and Tony said, 'You know I've got to start talking about this because it's like I'm keeping a guilty secret. And, we go to lots of these events and they're going to think I'm ashamed if I don't come out.'' The couple, who've been married for 55 years, told how they were ''relieved' to get his diagnosis, with Tony adding that he's staying 'positive'.
