Revised Title:
"Richard Madeley Faces GMB Exit and Lorraine Kelly Urged to Retire Amid ITV’s Major Cost-Cutting Overhaul"

Key Adjustments:

• Removed sensationalized terms ("bloodbath") for a neutral tone.
• Clarified "GMB" as the show linked to Madeley.
• Streamlined references to restructuring and cuts while retaining urgency.
• Combined both figures’ situations into a single, concise headline.

Richard Madeley and Lorraine Kelly Face ITV Daytime Shake-Up Amid Budget Cuts

[Image: Richard Madeley on Good Morning Britain]
Richard Madeley, 69, has reportedly renegotiated his role on Good Morning Britain (GMB) as ITV slashes daytime programming budgets. The veteran presenter, earning £300,000 annually, will transition to a part-time contract with reduced hours and pay. Meanwhile, Lorraine Kelly, 65, declined an offer to retire despite her show being trimmed to 30 minutes. She plans to depart ITV in late 2025 after fulfilling her current contract.

[Image: Lorraine Kelly hosting her show]
Sources reveal the cuts are part of a broader ITV strategy to redirect funds toward drama productions. A network insider stated, “These changes balance cost-saving with investing in high-quality content like Mr. Bates vs The Post Office and major sports events.” The overhaul affects over 220 jobs, with Loose Women and GMB’s production also impacted.

Key Changes:

• Lorraine’s Show: Reduced from 60 to 30 minutes (9:30–10 a.m.), airing five days a week for 30 weeks annually. Friday stand-ins Christine Lampard and Ranvir Singh will no longer be needed.
• GMB Merger: The show will merge with ITN (ITV News’ production arm), potentially integrating news and daytime staff. On-air talent is expected to remain unaffected.
• This Morning remains unchanged, with hosts like Alison Hammond and Cat Deeley continuing their roles.

[Image: GMB hosts Susanna Reid and Richard Madeley]
An ITV spokesperson emphasized the need to “preserve daytime TV’s future while funding new dramas and live events.” Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, added, “These adjustments ensure we deliver trusted news and entertainment amid rising production costs.”

Behind the Scenes:
The announcement followed an emergency staff meeting led by ITV Daytime head Emma Gormley. While the network denies the cuts reflect poor show performance, insiders note GMB’s social media success as a factor in its survival.

[Image: Loose Women panel discussion]
Fans expressed concern over the loss of beloved segments, but ITV reaffirmed its commitment to “award-winning news and debate.” The changes will take effect in 2025, with Lorraine’s final episodes marking the end of an era for ITV daytime.

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