BBC star confirms 'surprise' return to TV as fans say 'it's been too long'
Former BBC Breakfast star Louise Minchin has confirmed she will return to the channel in the new year, joining another popular panel.
The 56-year-old presenter will replace telly favourite Angela Rippon on Rip Off Britain, teaming up with Gloria Hunniford and Julia Somerville for the new series.
Minchin hosted the BBC's morning chat show until 2021, when she shocked viewers with an on-air departure announcement.
However, fans did not have to wait long for her return to the silver screen as the star took on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in November of that same year.
Following confirmation from the BBC that she would join the consumer programme's line-up, she took to Instagram to share the "surprise" on Saturday (December 21).
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Posting two pictures with her new colleagues, she captioned: "I have some fun news, much to my surprise, I am going to be back on the telly in the New Year. I am very excited to be joining the team at Rip Off Britain.
"I have always loved the show and looked up to the legends that present it, and have had an absolute blast working alongside Gloria and Julia who are not only brilliant at their jobs but also very funny."
Gloria Hunniford started as part of the show's original presenting trio in 2009, alongside Rippon and Jennie Bond. Julia Somerville later replaced Bond in series three.
Minchin went on to express her excitement for the new series, which premieres on January 6.
"It feels like such a privilege and a joy to be working with them. You can watch the show from Monday the 6th of January on BBC1 and iPlayer it is packed with lots of advice and information on how to keep you and your money," she penned.
Fans and colleagues of the journalist filled the comments with congratulations. ITV's Charlene White quipped: "Yay!! And you get to work with my amazing mate Gloria." While Channel 4 Star Steph McGovern said: "What a trio! Love this line up. Nice one Lou" and TV host Susanna Reid penned: "This is GREAT news."
Viewers were thrilled by the news, with many anticipating Minchin's return to the screen: "Great to see you back on TV it's been far too long" one wrote. A second joked: "Can you do Match of The Day too...you'd be fab."
The forthcoming season of Rip Off Britain will air 15 episodes over three weeks, showcasing expert advice on how Britons can hold onto their money. Viewers can look forward to a holidays special, which offers advise on how to make the most of your time abroad.
Rip Off Britain will be returning to BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Monday, 6 January 2025
