Good Morning Britain presenter Ed Balls has announced his absence from the show over the next two weeks and revealed his replacement – though not every viewers is happy about it.

Taking Ed’s place alongside Susanna Reid for the ITV early morning breakfast show will be Richard Madeley.

It’s not the first time this year that Ed has taken a step back from the show. Just last month Ed returned after a break where Richard also took his place – and fans feared he was being permanently replaced.

Ed announced the news of his departure on social media, referencing a feature on the show where a deepfake Susanna Reid was shown.

He wrote: “For the avoidance of doubt, this is definitely the real Susanna Reid and not the Deep Fake version I found myself co-hosting with yesterday!”

Ed continued in his post: “I’m in tomorrow with Ranvir, then next week it’s over to Richard Madeley for his fortnight in the hot-seat – and as we learned from the AI experts, I’ve briefed him to always check for the ‘join’.”

Devoted GMB fans rushed to tell Ed they didn’t want him to leave. One wrote: “Oh no.. 2 weeks of Madeley.. hurry back Ed.” Another added: “Noooo. He soo loves himself not like Ed.”

Someone else commented: “So is it that how it is now? 2 weeks RM and 2 weeks you? Have to say I prefer your presenting over RM.”

Ed’s on-screen absence follows a shocking moment on GMB where he accidentally kicked Susanna in the head.

The pair were sitting in aeroplane seats discussing whether it was right to put feet up during travelling. During the chat, Ed demonstrated by putting his feet up and accidentally kicked Susanna. She recoiled in pain, holding her head, while Ed quickly apologised.

“I think we’ve decided it’s not ok, there we go,” she said, adding: “I don’t know if I can carry on doing the programme. I’m seeing stars. That is our debate this morning, should you put your feet up on seats?”

Viewers were quick to react to the awkward moment with many taking to X, formerly Twitter, as one wrote: “Wasn’t expecting to see Ed Balls kick Susanna in the head this morning. #GMB”

“Just switched to #goodmorningBritain to see Ed Balls kick Susanna on the head accidently and it would take too long to explain A classic TV moment #GMB” added another.

While a third quipped: “At least that kick in the head didn’t spoil