viewers were left puzzled when did not appear as usual for Friday’s episode (February 7).
The TV favourite usually hosts the daytime show with every Friday, but her absence was unexplained as Rochelle Humes filled in last minute.
Rochelle, who often steps in for the This Morning presenters, joined Dermot to lead the Friday programme, yet no mention was made of why Alison wasn’t there.
The duo seemed in high spirits, though, with Dermot exclaiming: “Welcome to your Friday’s This Morning! Joined by the one and only Rochelle this morning!”
Dermot O’Leary and Rochelle Humes hosted Friday’s This Morning (Image: ITV)
“Oh thank you, so nice to be back! So good to be back,” Rochelle cheerfully responded, prompting a playful bow from Dermot.
The duo went on to dive into the day’s agenda, including a look at Friday’s news and an interview with author Marian Keyes.
Alison’s unexpected absence had been left unannounced, but it fell shortly after her grand 50th birthday festivities on 5 February.
Even on her day off, Alison had welcomed the This Morning team into her Birmingham home during Wednesday’s live broadcast for her birthday surprise.
Jeff Brazier arrived bearing flowers, while hosts and Cat Deeley sent their birthday wishes via video call, reports .
Dermot excitedly introduced Rochelle to TV viewers (Image: ITV)
Jeff then disclosed that the cast of Magic Mike were prepared and set to perform in Alison’s back garden, much to the TV star’s astonishment.
To add to the surprise, This Morning organised touching video tributes from her celebrity friends including Ant and Dec, and The Traitors’ Minah, while Dermot expressed a deeply affectionate message, acknowledging how it’s been one of the ‘great pleasures of his life’ to know and work with Alison.
This Morning airs on weekdays on ITV1 from 10am.