Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley made their highly anticipated return to This Morning on September 2, after a summer break.
However, their comeback was far from smooth, as viewers were quick to voice their opinions about the duo’s appearance and behaviour.

Viewers were not a fan of Ben Shephards’s new look. (Credit: ITV)

Ben Shephard beard
Ben Shephard surprised fans with a big change to his appearance – a beard. While some embraced his fresh, rugged look, others were far less impressed.
Host Ben debuted his facial hair with a selfie on social media, captioned: “Morning all – back to school and so far still smiling!! I’m really looking forward to seeing you at 10 am – hope you can join us!”
But fans were quick to react.
One disgruntled viewer commented: “Ben’s beard def a no no.”
Morning all – back to school and so far still smiling!!
Another added: “The beard is scruffy and untidy. #thenewnormal is the ‘Dumbing Down’ of dress standards on TV.”
Some even felt his new look aged him, with one remarking: “Ben looks 10 years older.”
Despite the criticism, there was also plenty of love for Ben’s beard.
One fan gushed: “Ben, keep the beard, very manly and I love it.”
Another admitted: “Never really found Ben Shephard attractive until I’ve just seen him with a grey speckled beard.”

Cat Deeley has been criticized for her onscreen behaviour. (Credit: ITV)