.GMB viewers tuning in saw Ed Balls and Kate Garraway joined by Hugh Bonneville, the Paddington star, via video link on October 31.

ITV Good Morning Britain has sparked scorn on Thursday – after an interview that was branded a “car crash”. GMB viewers tuning in saw Ed Balls and Kate Garraway joined by Hugh Bonneville, the Paddington star, via video link on October 31.

During the interview, Kate gave her condolences to Hugh over the loss of Dame Maggie Smith. But the presenter wrongly referenced Dame Maggie as having starred in Paddington, when in fact she had starred alongside Hugh in ITV Downton Abbey.

Hugh said: “I don’t think she was in the Paddington film, she certainly was in Downton.” Kate added: “Sorry, you’re right, it was Downton.” Hugh then cracked a joke as Kate looked red-faced, saying: “I’m sure she would look very good in a bear outfit, I am sure.”

A Twitter/X user said: “She was an amazing women of integrity to her roles and profession. She will be missed but forever in in our hearts and on our screens.” A second said: “#GMB Kate: I’m officially related to Paddington Bear. Me: Switch off TV.”

A third wrote: “FFS Kate! Think before you speak! #GMB,” and “Kate Garraway f***ing up again. #GMB.” Another wrote: “What a car crash #GMB,” and another chipped in with: “This Paddington segment is going on and on #GMB.”

In September, Dame Maggie’s death was announced by her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, who said: “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”