ITV has spoken out after claims were made that Martin Lewis Money Show co-presenter Angellica Bell was "secretly sacked".
It was reported that Angellica Bell, who was working alongside Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis, was asked to leave the programme just days before filming started on the new series.
It is alleged that producers asked her to leave the show after finding out about her involvement in Channel 5's rebranded The Gadget Show (now known as Shop Smart, Save Money).
The Sun reported that the producers believed that this represented a conflict of interest.
When you only have 2 MINUTES LEFT to tell everyone your favourite festive finds 🕒📣‼️ #MartinLewis
— The Martin Lewis Money Show Live (@itvMLshow) November 15, 2023
Catch up now ⬇️https://t.co/UrmgRXnyVQ pic.twitter.com/Y3cfgXUCLR
ITV responds to claims Angellica Bell was 'sacked' from the Martin Lewis Money Show
However, ITV has responded to these reports, saying in a statement: "Angellica is not working on the Martin Lewis Money Show Live, however, the relationship with her remains amicable and we are working with her on other forthcoming programmes."
According to a show insider: “Angellica was a valued part of the team having joined in series seven, but, given the importance of maintaining a clear, individual and distinct identity for the show it was felt that her new role meant she would not be offered a new contract to continue on the Martin Lewis Money Show Live."
“The Martin Lewis Money Show Live production team did not become aware that Angelica's new show would be called Shop Smart, Save Money until that programme was announced to the media in late September, with filming for it involving Angelica having already started prior to that."
⬇️ Below are Martin’s best bank switching deals for free festive cash ❄️#MartinLewis pic.twitter.com/UAlYixr7j9
— The Martin Lewis Money Show Live (@itvMLshow) November 15, 2023
It is understood that the decision was made over concerns from an editorial point of view.
Some were concerned that the two shows may present conflicting information on similar issues. There were also worries over maintaining the show's distinct identity.
Broadcaster and former Olympian Jeanette Kwakye has been announced as Angellica's replacement on the Money Show.
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