This Morning's Alison Hammond has apologised after offending ITV viewers and theatre performers during a discussion on whether audience members should sing along during musical performances.
Alison, co-host Dermot O'Leary and guest Vanessa Feltz discussed the banning of singing at the Manchester production of The Bodyguard musical.
As Dermot laughed at the new rules, Alison said: “I can’t believe it. I’d be devastated. I’m not even going to go to that show now.”
The ITV presenter shared a statement on Twitter after enraging the theatre community.
It read: "After reflection and the comments I made on Wednesday's show I want to apologise to anyone who I offended especially the incredibly talented theatre performers, who I have the upmost respect for.
"I had no idea the level of disruption audiences were causing and tried to make light of the topic on Wednesday's show, and for that I'm truly sorry.
"I am a great support of theatre and the arts and would never sing at the top of my lungs at any performance, I was wrong in what I said and I've given this a lot of though over the past few days and believe I was wrong."
She continued: "On Thursday evening I attended a performance of the GBBO the musical which I absolutely adored and gave a standing ovation, theatre is a magical experience for me and my family.
"I want to use my platform for good as always and want to stand up with the performers, Front of house and theatre staff especially after seeing what happening at The Bodyguard in Manchester which has made me sick to my stomach.
"Once again I am truly sorry but trust I will do better in the future."
Fans of Alison praised the This Morning presenter for apologising as one tweeted: "I do not believe you deserved any of the hate that has come your way but I have complete and utter respect for using your platform to reflect and explain. It takes a brave person to put out a statement and I think it speaks volumes of good that you have done so."
"Thank you for apologising and accepting that you were in the wrong, some of the hate towards you was a bit unnecessary though. I hope you are okay," another wrote.
Alison's friend and fellow presenter Rylan Clark commented: "Fuck it let’s go ABBA ….. I’m Frida," while comedian Katherine Ryan added: "ANYONE’s problem with Allison Hammond WILL BE PERSONALLY SOLVED BY ME. Let the nation’s sweetheart have a laugh, FFS she’s not going to ruin a musical, she’s here to be the light of our otherwise miserable lives."
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