Dr Hilary Jones returns to television screens with GB News after being axed from Good Morning Britain and Lorraine amid ITV budget cuts in the United Kingdom

Dr Hilary Jones has returned to television after stepping away from his regular appearances on ITV’s Good Morning Britain and Lorraine.

The 72-year-old GP had announced his departure from the shows back in October, following the broadcaster’s budget cuts that were revealed the previous May.

His exit ended a decades-long tenure on daytime TV, leaving fans wondering where the popular medical expert would appear next.

From TV-am to Lorraine: A Career Spanning Decades

Dr Hilary’s TV journey began in 1989 as the resident doctor on TV-am.

By 1993, he had become the health and medical advisor for GMTV, which later transitioned into Daybreak and Lorraine.

For over a decade, he was a familiar face offering health advice to millions of viewers, becoming a trusted voice on topics ranging from seasonal flu to major public health concerns.

His final regular appearance came on New Year’s Eve, when he announced he was officially a “free agent,” leaving open the possibility of guest spots on various programs.

Fans were quick to respond, eager for even occasional updates from the longtime TV GP.

A Return on Rival Network GB News

On February 17, Dr Hilary appeared on GB News’ Breakfast with Eamonn and Ellie, joining Eamonn Holmes, 66, and Ellie Taylor, 32, to discuss a measles outbreak in north London.

He emphasized the importance of vaccinating children under five to prevent serious complications like pneumonia and brain inflammation, while reassuring viewers that it’s never too late to vaccinate.

“The NHS offers the measles vaccine, which is nearly 100 percent effective,” he told viewers.

“You’re less likely to come in contact with it if you’re 55, but it’s still around, and anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated could be at risk.”

Controversy Follows His Return

Not everyone welcomed Dr Hilary back on TV.

Bev Turner, host of GB News’ Late Show, expressed anger on X (formerly Twitter), accusing him of “lying” to the public during the Covid pandemic.

Turner criticized him for allegedly amplifying fear about Covid and promoting mRNA vaccines, echoing similar concerns raised by personalities like Katie Hopkins and Dr Zoe Harcombe.

Turner’s now-deleted post stated: “Dr Hilary Jones was wrong on TV every day for two years.

He unnecessarily scared millions of people, breaking up families via fear and causing untold harm.”

She also suggested that he should publicly apologize for his pandemic-era commentary.

Past Controversies and Public Reactions

Dr Hilary has faced backlash before for his pro-vaccine stance.

In 2021, a group of anti-vaccine protesters reportedly gathered outside his home in Kent, holding placards and using megaphones to denounce his support for Covid-19 vaccinations.

On Lorraine in August 2020, he told viewers: “We are going to rely on the common sense of the British people… some don’t have it and have to be protected from themselves.”

He also criticized professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing for refusing the vaccine, highlighting his consistent advocacy for public health.

Recognition and Praise Amid Criticism

Despite the controversies, Dr Hilary has also received praise for his quick thinking and expertise.

Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway recalled how he guided her through decisions for her Covid-stricken husband, Derek Draper, demonstrating his hands-on approach to medical crises.

Even after complaints about inaccuracies on Lorraine regarding the proportion of unvaccinated Covid patients, Ofcom ultimately decided not to launch a full investigation, acknowledging that official statistics showed vaccination offered significant protection against severe outcomes.

Leaving ITV Amid Budget Cuts

Dr Hilary’s departure from Lorraine came after ITV cut the show’s episodes to 30 minutes a day for 30 weeks a year.

After 36 years in daytime TV, he decided to step away, although he promised fans that guest appearances might still be possible.

His exit marked the end of an era for the broadcaster, which had relied on his trusted medical expertise for decades.

What’s Next?

With Dr Hilary now free to appear on other networks, viewers can expect to see him on different programs offering expert commentary on health matters.

Whether it’s disease outbreaks, public health guidance, or medical advice, he remains a sought-after voice in British media.

Meanwhile, debates over his pandemic-era statements are likely to continue, keeping him at the center of both praise and criticism.

Summary

Dr Hilary Jones has returned to television after leaving ITV daytime shows Good Morning Britain and Lorraine due to budget cuts.

He appeared on GB News to discuss a measles outbreak, stressing the importance of vaccination.

His return sparked controversy, with some critics accusing him of spreading fear during the Covid pandemic, while others praised his medical expertise and quick thinking.

After 36 years on daytime TV, Dr Hilary’s new role as a “free agent” opens the door to guest appearances and further contributions to public health discussions.