BBC Breakfast Host Poses ‘Dangerous’ Question as Co-Host Warns ‘We’re Going to Regret This’
During Wednesday’s episode of BBC Breakfast, host Ben Thompson playfully expressed his reservations about a viewer engagement segment, remarking, “We’re going to regret this,” as co-host Sally Nugent invited viewers to share their dogs’ unique talents.
The duo, filling in for regular host Jon Kay, decided to connect with the nation’s dog lovers by showcasing dogs with special skills, particularly in agility. Sally excitedly asked viewers, “Have you got a dog with any interesting skills? We would love to hear from you!” Despite his initial hesitation, Ben added with a sense of foreboding, “We’re so going to regret this.”
Sally acknowledged the potential risk of the request, humorously stating, “Pretty dangerous question. I don’t know why we’re asking that, but…” Ben, however, remained committed to the idea, encouraging viewers to participate: “But do send them in!” Sally continued, elaborating on what they were looking for: “Any good tricks, basically. Send us a message, a photo—details are on your screen right now—of your dog may be doing a particularly clever trick. Or being obedient!”
The lighthearted request followed a segment featuring Hope, a talented dog whose owner, Jason, aspires to compete in the Dog Agility World Championships in Belgium. Initially skeptical about the story, Ben later admitted on air, “Actually, I’m really impressed. I was a bit of a cynic about that, but that’s actually a good thing. That was spot on.”
The show’s playful tone continued after Ben found himself in a humorous exchange with weather presenter Carol Kirkwood. Ben had jokingly suggested brighter weather following the Bank Holiday, which led to an on-air apology after Carol set the record straight: “That is not the forecast by the way.” Ben quickly acknowledged his mistake, humorously conceding, “This is why we leave it to the professionals, Carol. That is much more accurate after my terrible forecast, I am sorry.” Carol responded with a laugh, saying, “Bless you, Ben!”
With Jon Kay absent from the show, Ben Thompson has received an outpouring of support from viewers, who took to social media to praise his performance. One fan commented, “The A-team!” while others echoed the sentiment, calling him and Sally “the best and only way to start the day.” Another viewer suggested more variety in presenter line-ups, adding, “Great when you’re on Breakfast like Nina on too—should change presenters round all the time even on Thursday and Friday.”