AWARDS SEASON DRAMA
With reports that she turned down a big ITV gig, pals say that Alison Hammond has been left disappointed that she’s been replaced for the BAFTAs as she battles to keep her star on the rise
She’s been the darling of the nation’s TV screens over the past year – but it recently emerged that Alison Hammond reportedly turned down the chance to permanently replace Holly Willoughby as main host of ITV’s flagship daytime show, This Morning.
And insiders tell Closer that Alison, 48, refused the golden offer because she’s enjoyed working on other TV projects, such as on-screen institution The Great British Bake Off, plus last year’s BAFTA Film Awards alongside actor Richard E. Grant, which she previously told Closer was a dream come true for her.
But after it was revealed she will not be returning to the BAFTAs in 2024, with former Dr Who actor David Tennant announced as host instead, the insider says Alison’s nose has been put out of joint.
They say, “Alison had really hoped that she could do the BAFTAs for another year and even become a main host. She’s gutted not to be asked back – especially as she has built up such a great rapport with all the A-listers in Hollywood who seem to love her too.
CUT-THROAT
“Alison often suffers from imposter syndrome and thinks that everything could get taken away from her at a moment’s notice, despite all her success. Because she got into the entertainment industry via a reality show, she’s always felt like she’s had to work harder to prove to people that she’s got skill and talent and isn’t just famous for being famous.
“She’s really grateful for everything she has going on right now, but she’s aware how cut-throat the TV world can be.”
Alison –mum to son Aidan, 18, from a previous relationship – has enjoyed a meteoric rise to stardom. She got her big break as a contestant on Big Brother in 2002 and fell into life in front of the camera. ITV executives hired her as a regular on This Morning in 2003 and over the last two decades, viewers have seen her bubbly personality and Brummie charm disarm megastars including Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Harrison For
