Good Morning Britain presenter Richard Madeley was back on television screens on Monday (December 9) morning alongside Susanna Reid but viewers were distracted

Good Morning Britain’s Richard Madeley sparked a flurry of chatter as he unveiled his fresh look on the recent episode of the ITV morning programme.

The veteran presenter, aged 68, returned to the small screen on Monday (December 9) morning, joining Susanna Reid to deliver the day’s top stories from around the world.

Yet, it was Richard’s new beard that stole the spotlight, prompting the show to conduct a poll asking if the former This Morning host should maintain his facial hair. A majority of viewers, 66 per cent, voted against the beard during the broadcast, and many took to social media to voice their opinions on Richard’s transformation.

One X user, formerly known as Twitter, wrote: “I am absolutely loving the new beard growing, stick with it Richard, it will look very distinguished.”

Another chimed in: “Richard’s ‘stubble’ blends in with his makeup/fake tan/wrong foundation #GMB.”, reports the Mirror.

Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid were back on GMB presenting duty on Monday (Image: ITV)

A third viewer quipped: “The Middle East is on fire but let’s talk about Richard’s beard.”

Before the show concluded, Richard exited the GMB studio to shave off his beard, returning clean-shaven by the end of the programme.

The TV personality initially debuted his bearded look at The Royal Foundation Carol Service: Together at Christmas in Westminster Abbey, London, where he was accompanied by his wife Judy Finnigan.

Richard’s stubble distracted viewers (Image: ITV)

Richard looked dashing in a sleek black coat, paired with a crisp white shirt and grey tie. His outfit was completed with navy blue tailored trousers and polished black leather shoes, as he walked arm-in-arm with his wife.

His wife Judy, 76, was equally stylish, bundled up in a cosy black coat and a matching scarf adorned with silver sequins. The TV presenter’s look was rounded off with black trousers and comfortable flat black boots.

The Together at Christmas Carol Service, now in its fourth year under the patronage of the Princess of Wales, serves as a poignant reminder of the power of empathy. It honours those who have demonstrated love and kindness within their communities.