Emotions ran high during Wednesday’s episode of on The show featured a series of nostalgic clips from the Scottish presenter’s extensive television career, with numerous special guests making surprise appearances to celebrate her achievements.
However, the mood turned emotional when the programme crossed over to LA to chat with entertainment correspondent Ross King.
A video was played showing his first appearance on the show nearly two decades ago, prompting him to joke: “Wow, that was nearly 20 pounds ago for me! One of us hasn’t changed and it is not me!”
Reflecting on his early days in American TV, Ross expressed his gratitude to Lorraine for making him feel welcome. He said: “I was really nervous that day, but you were just so lovely. You made it all very easy as you do with all of your guests.
“We’ve had so many laughs over the years, we make each other giggle, you more than me!”
The entertainment star was blown away by the amount of messages from friends and family (Image: ITV)
As he began reminiscing about their shared experiences, it was evident that Ross was becoming emotional as he struggled to hold back tears.
He added: “I feel so lucky to have done TV with you, to have done radio with you, to then nights out I’ve stayed with you and the family. To have spent some really lovely precious moments with you.
“I want to thank you so much for all of those, you’re a very special lady, you mean a lot to me, you know that.”
Lorraine, visibly moved by Ross’ heartfelt sentiments, expressed to Ranvir Singh and Christine Lampard, who were co-hosting, that Ross was a dear friend of hers, reports .
Ross was overcome with emotion speaking to Lorraine (Image: ITV)
She went on to say: “We’re all pals! That’s why it’s such a joy to come into work, it really is.”
However, it wasn’t just Ross who had praise for Lorraine as ITV’s Andi Peters revealed he used to watch her on TV growing up.
He said: “I want to say thank you because when I was 17 years old I used to sit watching TVAM, that was one of the reasons I genuinely wanted to get into television.”
“For me, being on your show every day is a privilege for me and is something I always thought about when I was young, so thank you.”
Lorraine celebrated 40 years on air (Image: ITV)
Upon hearing this, Lorraine, who was unaware of his feelings, praised Andi as a delight to collaborate with.
Also in the show, Lorraine’s younger brother appeared via videolink ahead of her ITV show on Wednesday night, Lorraine Kelly: 40 Unforgettable Years.
In the hour-long special, viewers will see the show delve into her career from the very start, with more in-depth chats with family and friends.
Lorraine continues weekdays on ITV from 9am.