ITV's This Morning was thrown into chaos on Thursday, 20th November 2025, when presenter Piers Morgan unleashed an expletive during a live television debate, forcing co-host Ben Shephard to issue a swift apology to viewers.
Heated Debate Erupts Into Live Swearing
The incident occurred during a segment focused on men's mental health, featuring guests Ashley James and Cat Deeley. The conversation took a contentious turn towards the topic of toxic masculinity. When James expressed her view that being tough
is not a masculine trait,
Morgan retorted with a loud "B*******!" live on air.
Morgan immediately offered a sarcastic apology, mimicking the standard host response to a guest's indiscretion: Sorry, sorry, I would like to apologise for what the guest said live on air.
He further quipped about the consequences, stating, We are a live programme. We apologise for Mr Morgan and he won't be invited back for three more weeks.
On-Air Apologies and Further Tensions
Once the debate concluded, a visibly unamused Ben Shephard stepped in to formally apologise on behalf of the show. "Obviously, as Piers said, we are sorry that he has such a foul mouth and we do apologise for swearing," Shephard told the audience.
This prompted Morgan to challenge the need for the apology, asking, Was it swearing? Really?
Shephard firmly replied, Piers, let's not,
attempting to explain the protocol. Morgan, however, interrupted, claiming he didn't really mean it
and blaming the over sanitised
nature of broadcast television, contrasting it with his YouTube channel where he can say what I think.
Shephard delivered a final retort, directly addressing the viewers: If you would like to hear Piers carry on talking like that, then go to his YouTube because he won't be here for a bit.
Guest Ashley James praised Shephard's handling of the situation, remarking he was doing the Lord's work there.
Viewer Backlash and Social Media Fury
The outburst sparked immediate and intense criticism from viewers on social media. Many were already angered by Morgan's earlier comments dismissing the need for men to cry and show emotion.
One incensed viewer wrote: "F*** off Piers. Have you walked with blokes who have faced suicide as an escape. I have. Emote and cry if needed." Another commended Ashley James for her composure, while a third questioned the producers' judgement: Who the hell allowed Piers Morgan on @thismorning on men's mental health week?... Poor Ashley.
The event has raised questions about broadcast standards and has undoubtedly left ITV bosses dealing with the fallout from another controversial moment involving the outspoken presenter.
