After more than three decades of being the heart and soul of ITV’s mornings, Dr Hilary Jones has announced that he is stepping down from Lorraine — a decision that’s left fans and colleagues in tears.

The much-loved TV doctor, now 72, confirmed that his final regular appearance will take place on New Year’s Eve, marking the end of an extraordinary 36-year journey on British breakfast television. 💔

🌅 “It’s not goodbye forever…”

Dr Hilary — who began his television career in 1989 as the TV-am doctor before becoming the medical advisor on GMTV — has been a trusted face on ITV mornings for generations. From health crises to national emergencies, he guided viewers through it all with calm and compassion. 🩺

“It’s been difficult,” he told The Sun. “Everyone’s aware that colleagues are having to move on. ITV, like everyone else, needs to adapt. But this isn’t goodbye forever — I’ll still be around.”

💔 Lorraine Kelly Fights Back Tears On Air

During his emotional on-air announcement, Lorraine Kelly couldn’t hold back tears as Dr Hilary thanked viewers and crew for their support over the years. The studio fell silent — a rare, unforgettable moment of television tenderness.

“You’ve been our calm in every storm,” Lorraine said softly, visibly moved. “It won’t be the same without you.”

Viewers at home echoed her emotions online, calling it “the end of an era” and “a goodbye no one was ready for.” 💭

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⚡ ITV Cuts Shake Up Daytime

Dr Hilary’s exit follows ITV’s sweeping daytime restructuring, announced earlier this year. Lorraine’s airtime will be reduced to just 30 minutes a day for 30 weeks a year, with Good Morning Britain filling the slot for the remainder.

Host Lorraine admitted the decision had been “heartbreaking,” though she vowed to stay:

“I had an inkling changes were coming,” she told The Mirror. “I was angry not for me, but for my team — we’ve been together over 20 years.”

Reports suggest that over 200 ITV daytime staff could be affected as part of the cost-cutting measures.

🕊️ The End of an Era

From TV-am in the ’80s to Lorraine today, Dr Hilary Jones has been a reassuring presence in British homes for nearly four decades — offering medical advice, empathy, and comfort when the nation needed it most.

Fans across the UK have flooded social media with tributes:

“He was part of our mornings, our memories, our lives,” one wrote. “There will never be another Dr Hilary.”

As he prepares to step away, one thing is certain — his voice, wisdom, and kindness have shaped a legacy that will live far beyond the studio lights. 🌿