ITV This Morning star admits 'I'm there' as they eye up main hosting role

This Morning's Cat Deeley took over the reins of the ITV programme alongside Ben Shephard in 2024, stepping into the shoes previously filled by Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield.

Since their arrival, audiences have witnessed a roster of guest hosts including Rochelle Humes, Emma Willis, Rylan Clark and Paddy McGuinness filling in when needed.

But it appears one ITV personality has set their sights firmly on the coveted presenting position - and they're certainly familiar with the programme.

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Former Made in Chelsea star turned broadcaster Ashley James has disclosed her ambitions to secure the hosting role.

In conversation with The Sun, she revealed: "I've always said that I'm always there when the time comes. I would always love to host This Morning.

"I kind of follow where my interests are, and it's got me to where I am today, and I'm always going to work harder than anyone else."

The 38-year-old acknowledged her fortune, looking back on her entertainment career beginnings in 2012 when she had no industry connections whatsoever, reports Wales Online.

Ashley disclosed that upon leaving her previous employment, appearing on This Morning became her primary objective.

Her aspirations appear to have materialised, as ITV audiences regularly spot her as a guest panellist, frequently offering her perspective on current affairs alongside Nick Ferrari.

She continued: "I wanted to be on This Morning because it's a show that I grew up idolising. It was the goal. So I love it and it's such an amazing team. I love everybody that's on there, both in front of the camera and and behind the scenes."

Although Ashley hasn't taken up the mantle of presenter just yet, it was recently revealed that Love Island alum and Loose Women panellist Olivia Attwood will be taking the reins of the show this summer.

During a chat about her upcoming gig with Ben and Cat, she expressed her enthusiasm.

She said: "I'm going to be doing a couple of shows in the summer, I'm very excited to be joining you guys.

"It's a huge honour, I've obviously grown up watching this show and being part of the Daytime team with the Loose Women has been the best experience and this just feels like a very natural progression of that."

Ben and Cat have thrown their support behind Olivia, hinting that she'll do a 'brilliant' job in her new role.

This Morning is available to watch on ITVX.