This Morning: Dr Ranj says TV show's culture was 'not good for mental health'

TV personality Dr. Ranj Singh has remarked that the culture at “This Morning” was detrimental to people’s mental health. The ITV daytime program faced challenges this year with the departure of both presenters, Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby.

Dr. Ranj, who left the show in 2021, previously described the culture as toxic. Despite ITV’s chief executive denying claims of a toxic environment, issues arose following Schofield’s departure and his admission of an affair with a younger colleague.

In a new BBC iPlayer documentary on imposter syndrome, Dr. Ranj discussed his investment in the show’s values, including diversity, pride, and anti-bullying efforts. He left the program two years ago and expressed the pain of losing something he cared deeply about, attributing it to the developed culture that adversely affected mental health.

He disclosed feeling bullied at times, emphasizing his role as a mental health and anti-bullying ambassador, prompting him to address concerns. Asked if he had spoken to Schofield or Willoughby recently, Dr. Ranj mentioned their relationship had diminished.

In response to claims of a toxic workplace, ITV’s chief executive stated in June that they did not recognize such issues and had conducted an internal investigation, which did not uphold the complaints.

Regarding potential replacements for Schofield and Willoughby, the Sun reported on Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley being considered, but ITV labeled it as speculation.