Dermot O’Leary proved he’s always got Alison Hammond’s back by putting her forward for a new job, urging Simon Cowell to hire her as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent.
For years, Alison has fast become a national treasure on TV, thanks to her joyful nature, infectious energy and her unforgettable laugh, which has only continued since she and Dermot took over the Friday slots on This Morning.
On Wednesday’s programme, the pair were joined in the ITV studio by Simon and Lucy Spraggan, who rose to fame on The X Factor in 2012.
After discussing the prospect of the singing competition making a return after last airing in 2018 – to which Simon teased: ‘To be continued’ – Dermot then suggested that Alison could come on board the BGT judging panel.
His suggestion has come at an apt time, considering there’s continued speculation over whether David Walliams will return to his role.
‘All I’ll say is this as well Simon, with my learned friend here,’ he said, gesturing towards Alison.
‘Talking BGT, if you needed an extra judge, let me tell you – there is no one, I couldn’t endorse her more. This one would literally bring the house down in the Palladium.’
‘What do you think Si?’ Alison asked, putting Simon on the spot.
The media mogul seemed unsure how to answer, as Alison exclaimed: ‘Take it to deadlock!’
Simon emphasised how much he admires Alison, telling her: ‘We’ve had this conversation before actually. Look, I do love Alison, you know that.’
‘Yeah, but he just won’t give me a job,’ she quipped.
The Syco owner looked aghast at this suggestion, as he retorted: ‘That’s not true!’
‘I’m only joking, I’m only joking,’ Alison promised, holding Simon’s hand affectionately.
We reckon she’d do a stellar job!
ITV is yet to confirm who will be on the judging panel for next year’s BGT, although David, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Simon are set to appear on the special Britain’s Got Talent: The Ultimate Magician together.
Earlier on today’s This Morning, it was revealed that on Monday next week, Alison is finally going to reunite with Hollywood legend Harrison Ford after their interview went viral five years ago.
‘More mayhem and madness. Expect the unexpected, when Alison meets Harrison,’ the voiceover teased.
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV.
