Josie Gibson expressed her emotions live on This Morning as the show bid farewell to its long-standing editor, Martin Frizell, on Friday, February 28.
The ITV morning host shared her sadness over his departure, stating, “Today is a very special day, and a very sad day for us because our editor, Martin, it’s his last day.”
As a tribute, the show featured a playlist chosen by Frizell himself, with Shania Twain’s Man! I Feel Like A Woman! playing in the background.
Co-host Alison Hammond praised his music selection, saying, “He’s got quite good taste, our editor.” Josie lightheartedly agreed, adding, “He has got good taste.
Well, he employs us!” to which Alison responded, “Very true! Good point, babe, good point.”
Emotional Farewell from Josie and Alison
At the end of the episode, Frizell joined Josie and Alison on the sofa, where they paid tribute to his significant impact on their careers. Alison acknowledged his contributions to raising awareness on important issues, saying, “Over the last decade, Martin has helped shine a light on topics like men’s mental health, the menopause, and a cause close to his heart, Alzheimer’s.”
Josie reflected on the fun moments he brought to the show, from hosting Halloween parties to taking This Morning to iconic locations such as Downton Abbey, Coronation Street, and even Buckingham Palace. She credited Frizell for these memorable moments, saying, “It’s all thanks to this man.”
Fighting back tears, Alison shared a personal note of gratitude, expressing how he had transformed her and Josie’s careers. “He’s the one who took a chance on us, giving us incredible opportunities, and we just want to say thank you very much. On behalf of the team at This Morning, we think you’re incredible and we’re so sad to see you go.”
Frizell, visibly moved, expressed his appreciation for the show and its loyal viewers. “It’s been a great ride, it’s been a great time,” he said.
Martin Frizell’s Departure After a Decade
The seasoned television editor initially announced his departure in November 2024, explaining that after ten years at the helm, he wanted to focus more on family—particularly following his wife, Fiona Phillips’ Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2022.
Discussing his decision, the 66-year-old said, “Next year, I expect my family priorities to change, so I need to free up time for them. I love my team at ITV and will miss them and the thrill of live telly, but it’s an always-on, 24 hours a day, seven days a week commitment, and I won’t be able to do both.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Frizell highlighted his pride in producing over 6,000 hours of live television and launching impactful campaigns on issues such as suicide prevention, menopause awareness, and testicular cancer. “Whilst the gongs are always nice, I’m most proud of the change we made to so many lives—even saving a fair few.”
A New Era with Vivek Sharma
With Frizell stepping down, This Morning will welcome Vivek Sharma as its new editor starting Monday, March 3. Sharma, who previously served as associate editor for 15 months, expressed excitement about the role, stating, “Having grown up watching the show, it’s an incredible privilege and honour to take on the role of editor of This Morning.”
Acknowledging the show’s 37-year legacy, Sharma said he looks forward to shaping its future, adding, “The team on and off camera are world-class, and I can’t wait to work alongside them in my new role.”
Frizell’s departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy and impact on This Morning will undoubtedly continue.
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