Dermot O'Leary has issued a statement following a controversial segment on This Morning.
Alison Hammond, Vanessa Feltz and Dermot spoke about whether theatregoers should be allowed to sing along during musicals. It came after reports that the Palace Theatre in Manchester had pre-warned audience members they would not be permitted to sing during performances of The Bodyguard musical.
During the discussion on This Morning, Alison read out details of how the no-singing rules were being enforced at the Palace Theatre, before saying: "I can't believe it. I'd be devastated and I'm not even going to that show."
READ MORE:Alison Hammond apologises for 'thoughtless' comments made on this Morning
To which Vanessa said: "Isn't the whole point of going to a musical that you know, that you sing along to all the bits you know and when you don't know the words you just make them up?"
Alison replied: "Of course." While Vanessa added: "I mean isn't that what everybody does very, very loudly while eating an ice cream?"
Two audience members were removed from a performance of The Bodyguard on Friday evening, which was also subsequently prematurely ended, for loudly singing the show's famous track I Will Always Love You.
Following the incident in Manchester, Alison apologised for her comments. She said: "After reflection and the comments I made on Wednesday's show I want to apologise to anyone who I offended, especially the incredibly talented theatre performers, who I have the utmost respect for.
"I had no idea the level of disruption audiences were causing and tried to make light of the topic on Wednesday's show, and for that I'm truly sorry.
"I'm a great supporter of theatre and the arts and would never sing at the top of my lungs at any performance, I was wrong in what I said and I've given this a lot of thought over the past few days and believe I was wrong.
"On Thursday evening, I attended a performance of the GBBO, the musical which I absolutely loved and gave a standing ovation, theatre is a magical experience for me and my family.
"I want to use my platform for good as always and want to stand up with the performers, front of house and theatre staff especially after seeing what happened at The Bodyguard in Manchester which has made me sick to my stomach.
"Once again. I'm truly sorry, but trust me, I will do better in the future. Alison x."
After Alison's apology, Dermot shared a statement on Twitter. He said: "Evening all… A lot of people commenting about a reaction to a story we covered on This Morning about the 'Bodyguard' show and audiences singing along.
"Could I politely urge anyone passing judgement on the clip to watch the whole interview… as I was actually arguing AGAINST people singing too loudly in theatres. Nothing but love and respect for those treading the boards.
"Peace and love to all. Now, back to those Easter eggs… Dx."
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