GMB viewers slam Richard Madeley's 'insensitive' Russian dolls comment

Good Morning Britain viewers were not impressed with Richard Madeley as they tuned into Tuesday's show.

During a showbiz segment on the ITV breakfast show, Richard and his co-host Ranvir Singh watched a clip of Hollywood actor Ben Stiller meeting the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The A-list star - who is also Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Refugee Agency - visited refugees in Rzeszow, Poland before walking the bombed ruins of Irpin, Ukraine.

The 56-year old then joined the president in Lviv where they discussed the importance of the world remembering the on-going conflict with Russia - 117 days after it began.

Good Morning Britain viewers were not impressed with Richard Madeley as they tuned into Tuesday's show (ITV)

"Sir, really nice to meet you. Thanks for taking the time. It's really a great honour for me. You're my hero," Ben exclaimed as the pair shook hands.

As the camera cut back to the studio, Sean Fletcher said: "Something sort of bizarre about that isn't there? Because Zelenskky used to be an actor and he played a role as a president didn't he? Acting and now he is president."

Richard then replied: "Like a story within the story within the story, like Russian dolls," as Ranvir quickly interrupted him and added: "Let's not say Russian!"

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller meeting the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (via REUTERS)

Richard laughed as he replied: "I can only apologise," before saying: "Who cares?" as Ranvir predicted the headlines.

But GMB viewers tuning in at home were not happy with Richard's remark and took to Twitter to comment.

"Absolute liability Richard Madley, “Russian Dolls”. Ranvirs face said it all. Insensitive or what Let’s go to a break. Complete t*t. #gmb," one person said.

Another posted: "Richard Madeley comparing President Zelensky to Russian Dolls....and then saying "who cares" on GMB Wow! Ultimate Alan Partridge #GMB."

Many GMB fans were quick to criticise Richard for his comment (ITV)

A third viewer tweeted: "Who cares ???? Richard you should both care #GMB," while a fourth added: "Like watching an episode of Alan Partridge. Russian Dolls #GMB."

Someone else tweeted: "When are @GMB going to realise what a liability Madeley is? Comparing Zelensky to Russian dolls, and then saying he doesn’t care about what he said. #GMB #goodmorningbritain."

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV and ITV Hub.