ITV nurtured me they've been brilliant'

This Morning presenter Josie Gibson on her daytime TV success and why female friendships are so important to her

- LAUREN FLETCHER

With her warm personality and down-to-earth, relatable nature, it’s no wonder Josie Gibson is one of the most popular presenters on daytime TV right now.

The 38-year-old from Bristol has enjoyed a steady rise to fame since bursting onto our TV screens on Big Brother in 2010, and has since bagged a coveted role as a key presenter on This Morning. It was Josie who was there to support Holly Willoughby as she made her tearful return to the show, following weeks of controversy and the departure of former co-host Phillip Schofield.

Chatting to us while promoting her new ASMR video for Cadbury Brunch Bars, a self-effacing Josie is excited about her ever-growing popularity but admits she’s had moments when her live TV appearances have been overwhelming.

Although she tells us her whole TV career has been a “complete fluke”, she’s full of praise for ITV, which she says has “really looked after her” despite accusations from past staffers regarding its “toxic culture”.

Subtly alluding to the recent scandal surrounding This Morning, Josie reflects, “There have been highs and lows, but it’s been a lovely journey.”

Recalling how ITV has supported her progress, Josie tells us, “I wasn’t a very good presenter at the start, because I couldn’t see the autocue, but then I had my eyes lasered, and This Morning gave me a chance.

“Fair play to the show – they even stuck with me after I had a panic attack in the studio because I was so nervous. But they really nurtured me and they’ve been brilliant to me.