This Morning's Rylan steps in for Ruth Langsford following her sister's death

From Good Housekeeping

This Morning's Rylan Clark-Neal stepped in for Ruth Langsford to present today's episode (June 21), following the death of Ruth's sister Julia.

On Thursday (20 June), Ruth shared on her Twitter account that Julia tragically passed away after a long illness.

She added in her post: "As I am sure you will appreciate, I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding."

Eamonn Holmes explained the circumstances to This Morning viewers at the start of Friday's show, and thanked Rylan for helping out.

"No one understands more than our friend and our colleague Rylan, who has been a great comfort to Ruth and been a great help by stepping in today," he said.

Rylan added: "We know Ruth is watching, and we're sending you all our love and we love you dearly.

"And Ruth's going to need time to deal with this... I couldn't not be here today."

Eamonn then said: "Rylan was the first person I phoned when we heard the news. And you are a great support to Ruth on all of this."

Several celebrities have sent messages of love to Ruth since yesterday, including Loose Women panellist Coleen Nolan, Bake Off winner Candice Brown, Celebrity Big Brother's India Willoughby, and Strictly Come Dancing star Gemma Atkinson.

This Morning airs weekdays and Sundays from 10.30am on ITV.

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