This Morning host Alison Hammond has come under fierce fire after making what viewers branded a “moronic” comment about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s dramatic arrest — live on air.
The ITV presenter, 51, was discussing the bombshell news alongside Dermot O’Leary, Nick Ferrari and Sonia Sodha when details emerged that the former royal had been detained on suspicion of misconduct in public office — on his 66th birthday.
Plain-clothed officers arrived at the Sandringham Estate in six unmarked vehicles just after 8am, later confirming that a man in his sixties from Norfolk had been arrested. Searches were reportedly carried out at Wood Farm — where Andrew has been staying — and at Royal Lodge in Windsor.
But it was Alison’s reaction to the timing that sparked outrage.
As the panel unpacked the breaking story, she told her co-stars: “They could’ve done it yesterday, the day before his birthday.”
She added: “It is developing, we don’t know very much beyond what you’ve just said. All we know is that police can tell you.”
Within minutes, viewers flooded social media with furious responses, branding her comment “weird” and “out of her depth”.
One viewer wrote: “Alison saying ‘surely they didn’t have to arrest him on his birthday’. What a weird comment about an ‘alleged’ predator.”
Another quipped sarcastically: “Imagine if Alison was a police officer. Her boss: ‘We’re arresting Prince Andrew in the morning.’ Alison: ‘We can’t be doing that bab, it’s his birthday tomorrow, he’s probably made plans.’”
A third blasted: “Shouldn’t spoil his birthday. F**king moron.”
Others piled on, with one writing: “Alison so far out of her depth here. Dreadful,” while another concluded: “Alison says the stupid part out loud again.”
Arrest Shakes Royal Circles
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest and said the man remains in custody, though officers declined to disclose where he was being held.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.”
He added: “It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation… We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
The arrest follows a review of allegations linked to the so-called Epstein Files, including claims that confidential information may have been shared while Andrew served as a UK trade envoy. Andrew denies any wrongdoing, and no formal charges have been announced.
Meanwhile, Downing Street echoed the sentiment that “nobody is above the law” as multiple police forces across the UK continue assessing related allegations.
