Alison Hammond hints she won't return to host For The Love of Dogs
She replaced Paul O'Grady on the latest series
Following the sad passing of TV presenter and animal lover Paul O'Grady, ITV/STV bosses announced back in January that Alison Hammond would be taking over the role, becoming the brand new presenter for the 2024 series of the hit show.
Alison, who also presents shows such as This Morning and The Great British Bake Off, headed off to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to help the animals in their care look for a new place to live, but not everybody was pleased to see her on the show.
After publicly speaking out about the harsh backlash she received, admitting she was surprised, fans now think Alison has hinted she won't return for another series.
Ahead of the final episode on Tuesday 22nd May, Alison shared the advert for the episode, writing on social media: 'Final episode of for the love of dogs. I loved every minute of it'. (sic)
Due to Alison speaking in the past tense with the word 'loved', many fans think she was hinting she won't be back if the show was to get another series.
Despite the speculation, ITV/STV bosses are yet to confirm Alison's future on the show.
When did the new series start?
The brand new series started on Tuesday 16th April at 8pm, with weekly episodes on Tuesday nights.
Alison said of her new role at the time: “I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series, but if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all. I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new loving forever homes and hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way!”
What channel is it on?
The show airs on ITV1 and ITVX, and STV1 and STV Player for viewers in Scotland.
Satmohan Panesar, Commissioning Editor for ITV added: "We are thrilled to be able to confirm that the series will return in the spring and that the dogs have a brand-new champion in Alison Hammond. As Paul O'Grady always said himself, the stars of the show were the dogs themselves, but the impact that he had and the legacy he leaves will never be forgotten by any of us. We can't wait to welcome back the series with Alison; there will be all the fun and warmth that our viewers have come to expect whilst continuing to showcase the wonderful and important work done by the incredible team at Battersea.”
Peter Laurie, Battersea Chief Executive, said: “Everyone at Battersea is excited to embark upon a brand-new series of For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond. Over the last twelve years, For the Love of Dogs has shared with viewers the love and expert care Battersea dedicates to all the animals that need our help. Alongside our beloved Ambassador, the late, great Paul O’Grady, we've enjoyed showing how much joy rescue animals can give, and we’re pleased we can continue to shine a light on the work our charity undertakes every day to improve the lives of dogs and cats. We’re looking forward to welcoming Alison to Battersea and introducing her to the incredible animals in our care as we help them on their journey to finding loving, new homes.”
How can I watch it?
You can catch up all episodes now on ITVX and STV Player.
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Who previously presented the show?
The show's host and former presenter Paul O'Grady sadly died "unexpectedly but peacefully" at the age of 67 in March last year.
Paul's partner Andre Portasio said in a statement at the time: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening. We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss.
“He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.
“I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
Paul created the show back in 2012 after volunteering at the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home for six months. The show ended up having 11 amazing series before Paul's sad passing, picking up various awards over the years.
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