BBC Morning Live halts show as they welcome new host as co-star beams 'happy first day!'

Morning Live viewers were in for a treat during the Halloween episode of the BBC show as a new addition to the presenting line-up was announced.

On Thursday morning, host Michelle Ackerley was sitting alongside former rugby star Ugo Monye as she confirmed the news to fans.

She said: "Happy Halloween and Happy Diwali. We've got a belting bunch to keep you company today."

After introducing the roster of stars who would appear throughout the episode, she quickly turned her attention to Ugo.

She said: "Good morning to you all. Please join me in extending a very warm welcome to Ugo! Happy first day presenting Morning Live!"

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As the other guests on the show cheered and gave him a round of applause, Michelle questioned if he felt like it was the first day of school, not knowing where anything was.

He replied: "It does, but without the PTSD because today I actually made friends!"

Everyone burst into laughter as Michelle highlighted that the group was friendly before giving viewers more information about the newcomer.

She added: "Of course, many people will know you from presenting Question of Sport, but also from your incredibly successful career in rugby, both on and off the field."

An old photo of Ugo playing the sport appeared on the screen as Michelle asked if that particular game went well for him. He confessed: "I mean, we lost, but I'll take the photo!"

In 2021, Ugo was announced as one of the new team captains on Question of Sport as the popular BBC show had a shake-up.

Ugo joined Sam Quek on the programme, alongside Paddy McGuiness, who took over from Sue Barker as host.

Calling it an "honour" to join the long-running programme, he commented: "It's a show I have watched my entire life, so to be named as a captain is truly humbling."

However, at the end of last year, the BBC confirmed that the sporting quiz show had been shelved for the time being.

The BBC said: "Due to inflation and funding challenges, difficult decisions have to be made, therefore Question of Sport is currently not in production at the moment."

Morning Live continues weekdays on BBC One from 9:30am