TELEVISION B0MBSHELL: Ben Thompson appears ALONE on BBC Breakfast – is BBC Planning to follow in ITV’s footsteps?

Viewers who tuned into the latest instalment of BBC Breakfast were left feeling rather perplexed as news anchor Ben Thompson presented the show on his own.

On the Sunday morning programme, which usually features two hosts on the famous red sofa, Ben was forced to fly the flag solo.

At the time of writing, there has been no explanation as to why Ben, 43, was on his own. However, it could be because his shift fell on a bank holiday weekend, which could mean several of his colleagues were off.

Despite this, fans at home headed over to social media site X to share their confusion. One viewer said: “Why is @BenThompsonTV flying solo today @BBCBreakfast?? I hope you’re paying him double money!?”

A second viewer penned: “Another sunday without a woman on the sofa!”

Ben Thompson was on his own during the show (Image: BBC)

A third viewer asked: Why is @BenThompsonTV presenting @BBCBreakfast on his own #BBCBreakfast?”

While another observed: “Ben on his own this morning.”

During the show, Ben handed the reins over to Laura Kuenssberg to find out what was coming up on her morning programme, but was quick to highlight that he was on his own.

He said: “Laura Kuenssberg will be here this morning from 9 o’clock. Let’s say good morning to Laura! Laura, I’m on my own here!

“You are too in that big studio aren’t you? Good morning!”

Laura was quick to reassure Ben telling him that he’s never on his own with the viewers watching at home.

Fans shared their thoughts on Ben (Image: BBC)

BBC Breakfast star Sally Nugent’s unexpected absence at the start of an episode earlier this month raised some concern.

On May 14, Jon Kay, who normally shares presenting duties with Sally from Monday to Wednesday, opened the show alone and continued solo for the first 15 minutes, with no explanation for Sally’s missing presence.

Later on, Sally appeared on screen and offered an apology for her tardiness, saying: “Hi, I made it, everyone. Morning Carol! It’s so nice to be here. Sorry, I’m a little bit late!”