For the Love of Dogs has a new host in the form of Alison Hammond. She stepped into the role Paul O’Grady made his own earlier this month.
However, some fans were unimpressed with Alison‘s signing, with many arguing that there are “better” choices out there.
Alison Hammond takes up hosting role on For The Love of Dogs
Back in January, ITV announced that Alison would be the new host of For The Love of Dogs.
“I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series. But if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all,” Alison said.
“I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new loving forever homes. And hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way!”
ITV then said: “We are thrilled to be able to confirm that the series will return in the spring and that the dogs have a brand-new champion in Alison Hammond.
“As Paul O’Grady always said himself, the stars of the show were the dogs themselves. But the impact that he had and the legacy he leaves will never be forgotten by any of us. We can’t wait to welcome back the series with Alison.”
Fans fume
However, not everyone was happy with the appointment of Alison as the show’s new host. Many wanted someone else to host, namely Martin Clunes, who’s on TV with his Islands of the Pacific show tonight (April 29).
“Paul will never be replaced and if it is Allison Hammond that’s me not watching,” one fan fumed.
“I love this programme but not sure about Alison Hammond as host she’s not my favourite presenter not sure if I’ll watch it,” a second wrote.
“My recommendation would have been Martin Clunes,” another said. “A very poor choice Alison just isn’t a doggy person if there are ever dogs on This Morning she shows very little interest there were so many better choices!!!” another moaned.
“Martin Clunes would be ideal,” another fan said. “Martin Clunes would have been a great choice for this position, he has a genuine, well known love for animals,” another wrote.
After the first ep went out, another said: “Totally wrong person presenting it. She’s only there for the ££ imo. Martin Clunes or Graeme Hall would of been great.”
Viewer boycott
After Alison’s first episode, the show was hit by a ratings blow. This came after some viewers threatened to boycott the show because Alison was presenting it.
Not one to take the backlash lying down, Alison hit back at the trolls. She said: “All I would say is: ‘If you don’t want to watch it, don’t watch it.’ That’s what I would say to those trolls: ‘Don’t watch it then. If you don’t want to help Battersea, don’t watch it.'”
Some viewers are on the host’s side. One said: “Well I thought she did a good job last week. Nobody will replace Paul and there would never be a presenter everyone agrees on. At least we still get to see the wonderful work of all at @Battersea_.”
Another agreed and said: “Alison is doing a great job, she’s warm and fun.”
“I can’t see what all the fuss is about. No one can compare to dear Paul O’Grady but Alison’s warm and kind and doing a great job,” said another.
Read more: Alison Hammond admits feeling ‘failure’ after split from son’s dad
For The Love of Dogs is on ITV1 Wednesday at 8pm. Martin Clunes: Islands of the Pacific is on Mondays at 9pm on ITV1.
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