Alison Hammond says she’s become less ‘tactile’ with celebrities: ‘We’re in a different age’

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Alison Hammond has admitted that in recent years, in line with modern discussions of consent and personal space, she has become less “tactful” about interview topics.

The popular This Morning host has garnered a following with her friendly delivery style and willingness to laugh with her guests, regardless of their notoriety.

In a new interview ahead of her debut as co-host of The Great British Bake Off, Hammond said her new appearance at the cook-off has allowed her to “go back to basics.”

“I started interviewing people on This Morning,” she told the Daily Mail. “Basically, it’s about being interested in someone else. I come across as loud and cheeky, but I also listen to what people have to say.”

Hammond, 48, added that while she’s “always been quite tactile,” she’s learned to “cut it down” in recent years. These comments are consistent with current debates about touch and personal space. Many suggest that people should always check before touching another person.

“I don’t jump on celebrities and kiss them anymore, we’re in a different age,” Hammond said. “I just like to cuddle.”

Hammond takes over the role from Matt Lucas, who hosted the show for three series beginning in 2010. She will be joined by The Mighty Boosh star and comedian Noel Fielding, who has served as presenter since the show moved to Channel 4 in 2017.

In addition to a new co-host, there will also be a format change in this year’s Bake Off series.

Hammond hosts “This Morning”

(ITV)

Episodes revolving around various national dishes have been scrapped following backlash over previous years’ Japan Week in 2020, German Week in 2021 and Mexican Week in 2022. During those weeks, some viewers accused the presenters, judges and contestants of “casual racism” and playing off stereotypes.

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Executive producer Kieran Smith said in a recent interview that he would “hold my hands up” for criticism of the nationwide theme weeks.

“We didn’t mean to offend anyone, but the world has changed and the joke fell flat,” he said, adding, “We’re not doing national issues this year.”

The change drew criticism from celebrity chef Anthony Worrall Thompson, who called it a “bright” decision and “utter nonsense.”

“I can’t believe the small minority who don’t like these programs don’t have an on/off button on their TV and can’t just turn it off. The majority of people are enjoying the program,” Thompson told GB News.

“As for this program, it’s so pathetic that the minority have such loud voices.”

The Great British Bake Off returns on Channel 4 in September.