London, June 14, 2025 – In a heartfelt announcement that has left fans emotional, This Morning presenter Ben Shephard has revealed he is stepping down from his role on the ITV daytime show to focus on caring for his wife, Annie Shephard, who is facing significant health challenges. The 50-year-old broadcaster, a beloved fixture on British television, shared the news during a live broadcast on Friday, June 13, 2025, alongside co-host Cat Deeley, expressing his gratitude to viewers and his commitment to supporting his family during this difficult time.
Shephard, who joined This Morning as a main presenter in March 2024 after a decade on Good Morning Britain, explained that Annie’s health has been a private concern for some time. While he did not disclose specific details about her condition out of respect for their family’s privacy, he noted that her needs have become a priority, prompting his decision to step back from the show. “Annie has been my rock for 20 years, and now it’s my turn to be there for her,” Ben said, his voice breaking with emotion. “This wasn’t an easy choice, but family comes first, and I want to give her the support she deserves.”
The announcement follows months of speculation about Ben’s future on This Morning, as viewers noticed occasional absences attributed to “personal commitments.” Sources close to the couple told The Sun that Annie, a garden designer and mother to their two sons, Jack, 19, and Sam, 17, has been quietly managing her health away from the public eye. Ben’s decision to leave the show reflects the couple’s tight-knit bond, which he has often spoken about fondly, including their romantic history that began when they met as students at the University of Birmingham in 1995.
During the broadcast, Cat Deeley paid tribute to her co-host, calling him “the heart of This Morning” and wishing him and Annie strength. A pre-recorded message from former co-presenters Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield also aired, with Willoughby saying, “Ben, you’re one of the kindest souls I know. Sending all our love to you and Annie.” The studio audience and viewers at home were visibly moved, with social media platforms like X flooded with messages of support. One fan wrote, “Ben Shephard is pure class. Wishing Annie a full recovery and huge respect to Ben for putting family first.” Another added, “Heartbroken to see Ben leave This Morning, but what a devoted husband.”
Ben, who has also hosted Tipping Point and appeared on Ninja Warrior UK, assured fans he is not leaving television entirely. He confirmed he will continue presenting Tipping Point, which requires less demanding filming schedules, allowing him to balance work and family responsibilities. ITV bosses have expressed full support for Ben’s decision, with a spokesperson stating, “Ben is a cherished member of the ITV family, and we stand by him during this time. The door is always open for his return to This Morning.” Dermot O’Leary and Josie Gibson are reportedly set to step in as temporary co-hosts alongside Cat Deeley, with no permanent replacement announced yet.
The Shephards have always maintained a low profile regarding their personal lives, with Ben rarely sharing details about Annie beyond lighthearted anecdotes, such as her playful disapproval of his untidiness or her gardening passion, showcased during a This Morning segment in 2024. Their enduring marriage, celebrated with a vow renewal in 2015 for their 10th anniversary, has been a source of inspiration for fans. In a 2023 interview with OK! Magazine, Ben credited Annie for keeping their family grounded, saying, “She’s the glue that holds us together.”
The announcement has sparked widespread admiration for Ben’s selflessness, with many drawing parallels to his reputation as a compassionate presenter who has supported charities like the NHS and children’s causes. On X, a viewer commented, “Ben Shephard stepping down to care for Annie shows what true love looks like. Wishing them both strength.” Another wrote, “This is why Ben’s so loved—he’s genuine through and through.”
As Ben prepares to step away from This Morning in the coming weeks, his final episodes are expected to be emotional, with tributes planned from the show’s team and celebrity guests. For now, Ben and Annie remain focused on their family, with Ben expressing hope for brighter days ahead. “Thank you to everyone at This Morning and our incredible viewers,” he concluded on air. “Your support means the world, and I know Annie feels it too.”