Lorraine Kelly was replaced on her ITV show today (March 5) by Ben Shephard, after the presenter was forced to take a break following health issues overnight.

Viewers of the morning programme had already been voicing their worries over the past few days, after noticing Lorraine sounding increasingly under the weather on air. Some even urged her on social media to head home and rest her voice.

So there was plenty of surprise when Ben appeared instead of Lorraine during the preview segment at the end of Good Morning Britain.

Ben has stepped in for Lorraine today (Credit: ITV)

Ben Shephard steps in for Lorraine

As Good Morning Britain wrapped up, the show crossed live to the Lorraine studio to tease what was coming up. But rather than Lorraine greeting viewers, it was Ben who popped up on screen.

Explaining the situation, GMB host Kate Garraway said: “Now, Lorraine’s feeling a bit rough this morning if I’m honest. Ben Shephard, what are you doing?”

Ben revealed he had stepped in at short notice before heading off to present This Morning alongside Cat Deeley. It seems Lorraine’s voice took a turn for the worse overnight.

He told Kate: “I’m not 100% sure Kate, as you know. But, what I can tell you is, unfortunately – I don’t know if you have been watching this week. But Lorraine’s voice has been very bad.

“It’s been getting worse and worse. It finally collapsed last night. Couldn’t say a thing, much to Steve’s delight [Lorraine’s husband]. So, I have jumped into the hot seat just for today. I will be here until 9.30am.”

Lorraine’s voice ‘collapsed’ (Credit: ITV)

Lorraine has been ill this week

Over on X, some viewers admitted they were pleasantly surprised to see Ben fronting the show, particularly as the ITV morning schedule has recently undergone a shake-up.

One viewer wrote: “OMG. How refreshing it is to see Ben Shephard hosting Lorraine.”

Another replied: “I was just thinking the exact same thing!”

A third added that Ben “seems like a relaxed chap” while presenting, joking they “might leave the channel on today”.

Fans had already been commenting earlier in the week after noticing Lorraine sounding unusually croaky during the programme.

One viewer advised: “Go home and rest your voice, lots of honey and lemon!”

Another commented: “Lorraine sounds very croaky today…”

Lorraine herself acknowledged the issue during Wednesday’s show.

She said: “Thank you for all of your messages about my throat. It actually sounds worse than it is. I’ve got ginger and honey, so many of you recommended it.”

Lorraine has yet to give a further update, but it seems she is taking some time to properly rest and recover – with fans hoping she’ll be back on screens very soon.