Ex-BBC Breakfast star admits they'd 'never' watch show now for one reason

Former star has confessed that she no longer tunes into the show she once co-hosted for 20 years.

The 56-year-old presenter, who bid farewell to the iconic red sofa back in 2021, explained that she no longer watches the breakfast programme for one reason.

Currently, viewers tune in to watch the likes of , and front the beloved programme.

Reminiscing about her time on the BBC show with fondness during an interview with the i, Louise shared she still keeps in contact with them.

She said: "It's a compartmentalisation thing, I think. I remember it as a really important, happy time, and that's how I want to remember it. They're doing their own thing, which is great, and I'm still friends with them all, but no, I don't watch it."

Although Louise looks back on her time at Breakfast with fondness, she decided to step down from her role due to the early morning routine.

With the programme kicking off at 6am, Louise would have to wake up in the early hours of the morning to be at the studio in time.

Despite a good salary, Louise realised it was time to leave. She added: "I was being paid really well and it was a prestigious role - a lot of people don't understand why you'd walk away from that."

Her decision was reinforced after consulting a sleep specialist. She said: "That was one of those moments where I realised, maybe I call time on this, before it calls time on me."

After leaving the show, Louise confessed she felt as though she was 'permanently jet-lagged' and was catching up on lots of sleep.

Since leaving the red sofa, the presenter has kept herself busy and has even written her first novel, Isolation Island.

In addition, she has authored two books, Dare to Tri, which explores her bond with sport, and Fearless, an anthology of stories about inspiring women.

More recently, she joined BBC's Rip Off Britain alongside Gloria Hunniford and Julia Somerville.

Before her debut, she said: "I'm delighted to be joining the incredible team at Rip Off Britain. I've always admired the show for really making a difference, for shining a spotlight on the issues that matter most to people and empowering viewers with the knowledge to tackle everyday challenges and stand up for their rights.

"From uncovering scams to giving audiences the advice they need to safeguard their money, we'll do our best to promote the stories that expose the latest consumer issues and help to make a real difference. It's going to be an exciting series!"

Rip Off Britain is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.