SAD NEWS: GMB star announces exit as emotional Kate Garraway says ‘can’t believe it’
The presenter said the show “won’t be the same”.
Kate Garraway paid tribute to her colleague following their exit from Good Morning Britain (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Kate Garraway penned an emotional tribute to her colleague, who announced she is leaving Good Morning Britain after nearly three decades. Debbie Harper, also known as Debbie Dresses, has worked as a stylist for ITV for 27 years, dressing presenters behind the scenes on GMTV, Daybreak and Lorraine. In an emotional post on Instagram, Debbie reflected on the 27 “incredible” years she has spent working for ITV, sharing a gallery of photos documenting some of the highlights from her career.
She began: “Today marks the end of 27 incredible years at @gmb … and Daybreak/GMTV/Lorraine. What an absolute ride it’s been. 27 years of early mornings, a fair amount of chaos, and so much silliness in the wardrobe & makeup department. I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside the most wonderful and talent team for so many years. There are far too many memories to fit into one post, but there are some people who have been such a huge part of my journey…”
Debbie continued: “There hasn’t been a day across all these years without the wonderful @tvsrichardarnold. We’ve really laughed and shared so many brilliant moments together.
“The many press events with @lauratobinweather who somehow decided she was my styling assistant, but who has also been one of my biggest supporters, especially when it comes to sustainability.
“The incredibly generous and kind @piersmorgan always making me laugh and always such a pleasure to work with.
“All the dresses, suits, ties, racing hats, & the fabulous event glam’s for @ranvirtv @charlottehawkins1 @drhilaryjones @edballs @kategarraway @seanfletchertv @alexberesfordtv @richardmadeleyofficial who have all been a joy to dress.”
Her farewell message went on: “And finally of course, never a dull moment with @susannareid100 there is too much to say, and not enough words but I will miss you, big hugs.
“A huge, heartfelt thank you to @hollyslater and @thriftystitcher for being the most brilliant team. I genuinely couldn’t have asked for better people to share this journey with.
“It’s the end of an era, and although I’m excited for whatever comes next, saying goodbye to a place and people who have been such a huge part of my life for 27 years is incredibly emotional.”
Debbie signed off the post: “And now… it’s finally time for a lie in. X.”
Debbie’s friends and followers flocked to the comments to bid her farewell, including Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway, who said the show won’t be the same without her.
She penned: “I can’t believe it @debbiedresses – it truly is the end of an era . I remember when you joined gmtv – it wasn’t long after I started back in 2000 and you were a breath of fresh air with all your mood boards and visions for all the on air gang back then.
“You have always only wanted one thing for us all to look our best on air and you have done so much to celebrate and guide us all. It simply will NOT be the same without you xxxxx.”
Debbie has worked behind the scenes at ITV for 27 years (Image: Instagram/DebbieDresses)
Ranvir Singh added: “Cannot believe it – you’ve been with every step of the way since I started – it will feel very strange without you – have an amazing time out there away from the earlies !!! Xxxx.”
Entertainment correspondent Richard Arnold commented: “Can I wear culottes or a palazzo pant now? I love you.”
Debbie’s exit was announced by Ed Balls and Susanna Reid on Tuesday’s (September 1) instalment of Good Morning Britain, with the presenters admitting she will be greatly missed.
Susanna said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Debbie Dresses. We have been dressed by Debbie Dresses for 100 years and she leaves us today So goodness only knows what we’ll be wearing tomorrow morning. Thank you so much Debbie, we love you.”
Ed added: “The thing she does is she creates an environment in our green room when we arrive in the morning she’s so supportive and warm. She’s lovely and we’re going to miss her a lot.”
Susanna agreed: “We are going to miss her. Goodbye Debbie, she’s a tough act to follow but Polly will do a great job.”
