Cat Deeley's 'demand' for This Morning that 'bosses refused to meet

11 March 2024 , 12:27

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Cat Deeley has permanently replaced Holly Willoughby (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Cat Deeley, who today took over as a new permanent host of This Morning alongside Ben Shepherd, reportedly made one very specific demand of ITV bosses while negotiating her enviable contract.

The 47-year-old was reportedly offered an incredible £555,000 contract to replace Holly Willoughby on the This Morning sofa, following rocky times behind the scenes of the beloved daytime show.

Although This Morning bosses were keen to pair Cat up with Good Morning Britain presenter Ben, it's understood Cat, who previously worked on American dance show So You Think You Can Dance?, originally had a different famous screen partner in mind while weighing up her options.

Cat was reportedly initially keen for Rylan to join her on the This Morning sofa (Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Viewers enjoyed the pair's 'natural' rapport back in November (Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The Mail Online reports Cat had her sights set on working alongside BBC Radio Two presenter Rylan Clarke, who she hosted her This Morning debut with back in November. Kicking off the show, Cat appeared to be enjoying herself thoroughly as she asked viewers: "Can you believe they've let two of the naughtiest people on television live on ITV?"

Cat and Rylan partnering up proved to be a hit with fans, many of whom rushed to social media to praise their 'natural' onscreen rapport, with one viewer declaring them to be a 'breath of fresh air'.

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In early February, as rumours circulated surrounding the coveted appointment, Rylan admitted he wasn't keen on the idea of a full-time This Morning gig, revealing: "I worked at This Morning for, what, six years? And then I left and I got used to sleeping in and now it's so nice to be able to just pop in for a week, see everyone, have a lovely time, give away some money, and then go home. And at the end of the day if I do anything wrong, ain't my show, don't care!"

Ben and Cat have today taken over from Phil and Holly (DIGITAL/EROTEME.CO.UK)

Following many weeks of speculation, however, last month it was finally revealed that Cat and Ben would be taking their places together on the famous sofa as a new This Morning duo, marking a new start in the show's history.

Opening today's show, amid great anticipation from those at home, Cat said: "We are so excited to be here this show has been a part of our lives for so long." Ben added: "Everyone has been so kind. Thank you to everyone who has sent us messages of support."

Julia Banim