BBC Breakfast host tells co-star to 'stop laughing' after sensitive story

14 September 2023 , 09:09

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The team were discussing a ship which had run aground in Greenland (Image: BBC)

BBC Breakfast hosts Naga Munchetty and Ben Thompson had to tell weather presenter Matt Taylor to "stop laughing" during Thursday's (September 14) broadcast.

This followed a sensitive news story detailing the predicament of a cruise ship bound for Greenland that had run aground in a remote, icy waterway. The co-hosts had been discussing the stranded vessel's situation, with Ben elaborating: "It's so remote the Danish military have sent help, but it's taking a while to get there and the crew may not arrive until tomorrow."

He reassured viewers, saying: "But do not panic - they have enough food - they have enough everything. There are no injuries, but they may be stuck on that ship a little longer." Commenting on images of the ship's frosty surroundings, he queried Naga: "It's a nice place to be stuck, isn't it?"

Naga Munchetty was forced to intervene when Matt laughed over a news item (BBC)

Naga responded with a touch of irony, "Nice? That's an understatement," before introducing Matt, adding, "It's a beautiful view." As the camera shifted to the meteorologist, he explained: "It was - in the sunshine. But it's Greenland and it can all change."

Unable to contain his amusement, he broke into laughter, adding: "In fact, there's some pretty rough weather coming that way over the next few days." This prompted Naga to interject as she quipped: "Oh is there? Do not smile about that and laugh about it!"

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In a moment of light-hearted embarrassment, Matt confessed: "I was thinking about the guides there who tell the passengers everything they can see. He must have dried up ages ago." Naga couldn't help but tease Matt for his amusement at the guide's predicament, saying, "So you're laughing at him having to tell them that? It just gets better, Matt," which led to more laughter in the studio.

Matt was seen giggling after the sensitive item (BBC)

Eager to steer the conversation away from his faux pas, Matt quickly proposed: "Shall I move on to our weather now?" "I would!" Naga retorted playfully. Naga recently opened up about her absence from the news programme. The broadcaster explained she had been enjoying a trip to Scotland and a break in the city of Inverness.

The broadcaster enjoyed several games of golf while up in Scotland and also revealed she had a relaxing run along the coast overlooking the ocean.

BBC Breakfast airs at 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

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Daniel Bird