Alison Hammond caused a stir on Friday's This Morning when she addressed Prince Harry as 'babes' during a live broadcast from Birmingham. The ITV programme featured hosts Dermot O'Leary and Angela Scanlon in the studio, while Hammond reported from the NEC ahead of the Invictus Games.
What Happened During the Segment
Hammond, a Birmingham native, attempted to interview Prince Harry, the founder of the Invictus Games, but found herself unexpectedly joining a race. She managed to secure a hug from the prince when he noticed her, but her informal address—calling him 'babes'—left many viewers unimpressed. One viewer described the moment as 'a car crash' on social media.
The Invictus Games, established in 2014, is an international sporting event for wounded, injured, or ill military personnel and veterans. The name 'Invictus' means 'unconquered' in Latin, symbolising resilience and strength.
Viewer Reactions on Social Media
Fans of the show flocked to X, formerly Twitter, to share their opinions. One viewer wrote: 'I'm just waiting for her to call him "Babes". She didn't disappoint.' Another raged: 'Alison, what on God's Earth are you doing? Absolutely embarrassing behaviour! Are you 6 years old?' A third commented: 'What a car crash and a bloody noise.' A fourth stated: 'Hammond....just an embarrassment.' Another concurred: 'This is embarrassing.'
However, some viewers enjoyed Hammond's style. One said: 'Howling at Alison. You go girl.' Another remarked: 'Harry always has some spare time for Alison.'
Prince Harry on Choosing Birmingham
Later in the programme, Hammond caught up with Prince Harry to discuss the Games. When asked why Birmingham was chosen as the host city, the prince explained: 'It's great, like Birmingham is the centre point of where so many of the wounded soldiers came back from Afghanistan.' He added that the Games represent a 'homecoming' for many veterans and mentioned accounts from veterans in Ukraine, highlighting how Invictus has supported that community.
Morning Live Takes Summer Break
Prince Harry's appearance coincided with the announcement that rival daytime programme Morning Live would take a summer break. Presenter Gethin Jones revealed on Friday's BBC broadcast that Morning Live would be off air for a considerable period. The slot will be filled by new episodes of Animal Park, airing from 9.30am to 10.15am after BBC Breakfast. The documentary series will also broadcast from Monday, July 20, with Kate Humble and Ben Fogle celebrating 25 years of Animal Park, reflecting on memorable animal stories and their friendship.
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1.
