Dermot O’Leary, 49, and Alison Hammond, 47, replaced Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford for Friday’s This Morning slot last year.
It has been claimed that the two have been hiding their real relationship from viewers, after it was reported by MailOnline that they struggled to “hit it off” and have been “bickering” behind the scenes.
However a This Morning spokesman has confirmed that the pair are now pals and socialise together outside of work.
Speaking to The Mirror, the insider said: “Alison and Dermot have developed a firm friendship and their chemistry has proved a ratings success. Since the pandemic ended, the pair are able to enjoy socialising together post the show.”
Alison did however discuss how sometimes it doesn’t always work out when producers throw people together for shows, expecting them to just get along.
(Image: ITV)
She told Lorraine: “Absolutely, it was literally that though. That’s what happened to us.”
A source claimed to MailOnline: “They came from very different backgrounds. Dermot has been a big star for many years and has presented some big shows, while Alison has always wanted a less high-profile career and has far less experience.”
(Image: Tristan Fewings/Getty Images)
Alison shot to fame in 2002, when she appeared on Big Brother, and Dermot started his career as a radio presenter for Essex Radio, and was snapped up to present X Factor in 2007.
While alleged initial tensions were reportedly kept under wraps for the most part, Alison appeared outwardly unimpressed with him when he told viewers she was “seeing someone”.
Back in May, Dermot said: “You’re not available anymore, are you?” Dermot began before adding: “But if you were…”
Alison replied: “What do you mean I am not available?”
“You know…” Dermot awkwardly replied as Alison insisted: “I’m available.”
(Image: ITV)
While Dermot tried to back track and shut the awkward conversation down, Alison said: “I love the way you out me. Yeah there is someone in my life.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
